Antonio Conte has urged Chelsea to make the Champions League their "home" ahead of a return to the tournament.
The Blues did not compete in Europe's primary club competition this season after enduring a disappointing campaign last term which culminated in a 10th place finish.
But the west London club's absence from a place among the elite looks set to be shortlived. Chelsea are on course to book their spot in next season's Group Stages, with Conte's side boasting a seven-point lead at the top of the Premier League table.
Conte won the Champions League during his playing career at Juventus and is determined to reinstate Chelsea as challengers for the biggest prize in club football as soon as possible.
"For me and my players, I think the Champions League must be an appointment for us every year," Conte told Chelsea's official website.
"The Champions League must be our home and for this reason we are putting all our strength into playing in it next season.
"It's a great competition for every single player, club and manager. We want to stay there and try to fight to win it," he added.
However, Chelsea would be ill-advised to turn their attention to the Champions League ahead of the Premier League run-in.
The Blues are in a commanding position ahead of tonight's trip to West Ham but Nemanja Matic is adamant the pacesetters cannot become complacent as they close in on silverware.
Meanwhile, Chelsea received some positive news off the pitch this morning after their new stadium plans received final approval from Mayor of London Sadiq Khan.
