London (AFP) – Antonio Conte is adamant none of the fiery exchanges he had with Walter Mazzarri in Italy will spill over into England now they are both managers in the Premier League.

Conte clashed with Mazzarri when they were both in Serie A and the pair will be in opposition again when Conte’s Chelsea travel to Mazzarri’s Watford on Saturday.

Former Napoli manager Mazzarri had previously suggested Conte had lifted elements of his tactical approach while in charge of Juventus, sparking a war of words between the pair.

But Conte said Friday he had no lingering issues with Mazzarri.

 b”I saw (Mazzarri) in the managers’ meeting, and also (fellow Italian and Leicester manager) Claudio Ranieri,” said Conte.

“I spoke with him about this new experience, this is a great challenge also for him. I saw him very focused about this experience.

“When we were in Italy and we fought for the title, Juventus against Napoli, yeah, but when you stay up and you are fighting for the title everyone fights for their club.

“But the relationship is very normal, I have great respect for him and his work. I think he’s a good manager.”

Chelsea forward Juan Cuadrado has been linked with a return to Juventus, where he was on loan last season.

But Conte said the Colombia international remained a Chelsea player for the time being and that the club were “waiting for the right solution” before the transfer window closes.

When asked why Cuadrado was not in the squad for Monday’s 2-1 win over London rivals West Ham, Conte told reporters: “For Cuadrado we are waiting, we are waiting on the situation, because the situation must become more clear about his position. Now he is Chelsea’s player, today he had training with us.”