Chelsea dropped their first points of the season when they drew 2-2 with Swansea last Sunday, but will now have the chance to bounce back against Liverpool on Friday.
Conte’s team will be eager to maintain its 100% home record since the start of the season, but will have to be careful with Liverpool’s pace and inventiveness in attack.
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
The Belgian conceded two goals at the Liberty Stadium, but he’s still Chelsea’s best option between the sticks.
Left-back: Cesar Azpilicueta
The Spanish defender is one of Conte’s most important players and is likely to keep his starting place despite the arrival of Marcos Alonso from Fiorentina.
Central defenders: John Terry and David Luiz
Conte didn’t like the fact his team conceded two goals against Swansea and Cahill’s costly mistake for the Welsh side’s second goal is probably going to cost him his starting place. David Luiz, who returned to Stamford Bridge from PSG last month, is set to start next to captain John Terry.
Right-back: BranislavIvanovic
The Serbia international has started the season very well and was instrumental in Chelsea’s second goal last weekend.
Central midfielders: N’Golo Kante and NemanjaMatic
The duo has done very well so far in terms of controlling games and Conte is unlikely to change anything in midfield for the Liverpool game, especially considering the fact Liverpool are very dangerous on the break and Chelsea will need a midfield with solid work rate.
Left winger: Eden Hazard
It seems like Hazard has learnt from the disappointing 2015/16 season and is ready to lead Chelsea to glory this term. He’s in fantastic form and is one of Conte’s indispensable players.
Attacking midfielder: Oscar
The Brazilian assisted Costa’s first goal against Swansea, showing his great technique and awareness in the process. Conte needs Oscar’s creativity, so the former Internacional player will keep his place in the starting line-up.
Right winger: Willian
Willian’s place in the starting line-up against Liverpool is secure as well. Conte appears to value his pace, directness and eye for a goal.
Striker: Diego Costa
Costa has started the season brilliantly and is in fine goalscoring form. When he’s on the top of his game, he’s very difficult to handle, so the Liverpool defenders will have to track his movement very carefully.
(4-2-3-1)
Via – Lineup Builder
