2 The 3-4-3 Formation
Chelsea are very close to making history. After their comfortable 3-0 victory over Bournemouth on Boxing Day, they welcome Stoke City at Stamford Bridge in search for their 13th Premier League win in a row. If they manage to defeat Mark Hughes’ men on Saturday, they’d only be one win away from equaling Arsenal’s record of 14 wins in a row between February 2002 and August 2002.
Chelsea’s chances of winning the game will be further boosted by the expected returns of Diego Costa and N’Golo Kante. Both players missed the game against the Cherries last Monday, but they should be available for selection this weekend.
The Blues are heavy favorites for the win. Their form is sensational, whereas Stoke City have only won 2 of their 9 away games in the league so far.
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
The Belgian goalkeeper will have to be very careful during Stoke’s set pieces as the visitors have plenty of tall and physical players.
Central defenders: David Luiz, Gary Cahill and Cesar Azpilicueta
Conte’s reliable defensive trio were once again on the top of their games against Bournemouth and will have to stay focused if they want to help their team to another victory.
See next page for the rest of the formation…
1 Right wing-back: Victor Moses
The Nigerian showed on Monday that he’s not only good in attack, but has plenty to offer in defense as well. He’s definitely one of the revelations of the current season.
Central midfielders: Cesc Fabregas and N’Golo Kante
Kante was rested against Bournemouth, but is expected to return to the starting line-up this weekend to partner Fabregas, who was excellent against the Cherries. Matic was very good as well, but now it’s his turn to get some much needed rest.
Left wing-back: Marcos Alonso
His performance levels have been consistently good ever since he broke into Conte’s starting eleven at the end of September. One of the most dependable full-backs in European football right now.
Right winger: Willian
Willian will occupy the right side, as Pedro is suspended after having picked up five yellow cards.
Left winger: Eden Hazard
Hazard started last Monday’s game in a central role in order to replace Diego Costa and Conte’s experiment proved to be successful. However, he’s now likely to move back to his preferred position on the left wing for the game against Stoke City.
Striker: Diego Costa
The Premier League leading goalscorer was rested against Bournemouth, but is now expected to return to Chelsea’s starting line-up. The Blues won comfortably without him, but Costa’s undoubted ability and presence on the pitch are absolutely crucial for Chelsea’s chances of winning the title this season.
