Antonio Conte believes Chelsea sent a message to themselves in the manner of their 5-0 demolition of Everton at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues oozed class throughout Saturday’s victory, with Eden Hazard and Pedro Rodriguez starring. There was also attacking intent from Diego Costa as Chelsea simply overpowered Everton to record their fifth Premier League win on the trot.

Hazard netted a brace, with Costa and Pedro also on target along with full-back Marcos Alonso. Chelsea could easily have scored more against a shell-shocked Everton side and their manager says they have now set the benchmark for themselves.

“When you have this type of performance, you are very happy. It’s important to win but when you win this way playing good football with good intensity, with and without the ball, it’s great. It can improve our confidence and I am very pleased,” said Conte.

“It’s important to send a message to ourselves. It’s important to focus on our way. We want to improve.” Since losing to Arsenal in September, Chelsea have won all five league games – scoring 16 goals and conceding none. Conte’s switch to a three-man defensive set-up has clearly reaped dividends.

The Italian is not willing to rest on his laurels and he insists that Chelsea must continue to work tirelessly after the international break.

“This is the right way and it’s important the players recognise it. It’s important to celebrate this win but I’d like to say that now Everton is the past and after the international break we must be focused,” he added.

Chelsea are 4.00 to win the Premier League this season while they are now 1.25 to finish in the top four.