Antonio Conte’s in-form Chelsea side travels to Middlesbrough on Sunday in search for their sixth straight win in the Premier League.The Italian manager is unlikely to make any changes to his team as Chelsea haven’t conceded a single goal in the league since their heavy 3-0 loss at Arsenal at the end of September.
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
The Belgian is in fantastic form and has only conceded 9 goals in 11 league games this season.
Central defenders: David Luiz, Gary Cahill and Cesar Azpilicueta
Conte’s switch to the 3-4-3 formation has been a huge success, but his central defenders also deserve massive credit as all three of them are doing fantastically well in the new system.
Right wing-back: Victor Moses
The Nigeria international has cemented his place in Conte’s starting eleven over the past few weeks and is currently one of Chelsea’s key players.
Central midfielders: N’Golo Kante and Nemanja Matic
That’s Conte’s preferred midfield partnership and the duo rarely lets him down. Kante and Matic complement each other perfectly and their understanding is essential for the functionality of the 3-4-3 formation.
Left wing-back: Marcos Alonso
Alonso has been a great signing for Chelsea and it’s no surprise that he’s adapted to the demands of English football so quickly given his past experiences at Bolton Wanderers. He’s a very reliable and composed player and deserves his place in Conte’s starting eleven.
Right winger: Pedro Rodriguez
The former Barcelona winger has been given a chance to finally establish himself in Chelsea’s starting eleven and it seems like he’s taken it with both hands. He’s started Chelsea’s last 4 league games, scoring 2 goals and providing 4 assists.
Left winger: Eden Hazard
Hazard is one of Chelsea’s most important players and is close to unstoppable when on form. He’s having a fantastic season, having scored 7 goals and providing 1 assist in 11 league appearances so far.
Striker: Diego Costa
Antonio Conte has confirmed the Premier League leading goalscorer has been able to recover from his groin injury and will play at the Riverside Stadium, which is a major boost for Chelsea’s chances. The Spain international has scored 9 goals in 11 league games so far and is currently the best striker in the country.
Formation: 3-4-3
Via – Lineup Builder
