It was his first game at home as manager since returning from a ban, which kept him out for several months.

“I am certainly moved, as it is always very pleasing to have this show of affection from our fans,” confessed Conte.

“Of course we wanted to get a victory, as we want to be competitive in every tournament. There were many lads who hadn’t played as much this season, but they had the chance to shine.

“Cagliari were organised and now we wait for the Quarter-Finals, where our opponents will presumably be Milan.”