Chelsea have opened a 6-point gap at the top of the Premier League table following their 1-0 win at Sunderland on Wednesday and will be looking to win their 11th league game in a row when they travel to Selhurst Park this weekend.
Conte’s men are the most in-form team in the league and are definitely favorites for the three points on Saturday. Crystal Palace have only won 2 of their last 8 home games in the league this season, whereas Chelsea are the best away team in the Premier League with 6 wins from 8 trips so far.
Chelsea’s manager made some changes to his starting eleven against Sunderland. NemanjaMatic was left on the bench in order to get some much-needed rest, whereas Eden Hazard missed the game with a knock sustained against West Bromwich Albion last weekend.
Hazard should be fit to start against Palace, but Matic is likely to remain on the bench.
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
Chelsea have the joint-best defensive record in the league so far, having only conceded 11 goals in 18 games, and the Belgian goalkeeper deserves much of the credit.
Central defenders: Gary Cahill, David Luiz and Cesar Azpilicueta
The defensive trio has started every single Chelsea game in the league since Conte’s decision to switch to the 3-4-3 formation at the end of September.
Right wing-back: Victor Moses
Moses couldn’t make an attacking impact against Sunderland, but is still by far the best choice for the right wing-back position.
Central midfielders: N’Golo Kante and Cesc Fabregas
Matic should be in good physical condition for the game at Palace after being rested against Sunderland, but Cesc Fabregas is likely to keep his starting place thanks to his impressive display at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday.
The Spaniard scored the winning goal for his team and his creativity really made a difference. The former Barcelona player is expected to partner the irreplaceable Kante in Chelsea’s midfield at Selhurst Park.
Left wing-back: Marcos Alonso
The former Fiorentina player will need to be very focused against Palace, as Zaha’s movement on the right wing could make things difficult for the defender.
Right winger: Willian
The Brazil international provided the assist for Fabregas’ goal on Wednesday and is expected to keep his place in the starting eleven at the expense of Pedro Rodriguez.
Left winger: Eden Hazard
Hazard missed Chelsea’s win at Sunderland due to a knock, but should be fit to start at Selhurst Park.
Striker: Diego Costa
Costa didn’t have his best game at the Stadium of Light and will surely be looking to get back on the scoresheet on Saturday.
Formation: 3-4-3
