It’s been a wonderful season for the Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern, who’ve watched their side largely dominate the Premier League ever since Antonio Conte’s switching to a 3-4-3 back in October.
The Italian’s reign all started with a dramatic win over London rivals West Ham United back in August, when Diego Costa grabbed a last minute win over Stamford Bridge. So much has happened in both west and east London since then, as the Blues and the Hammers prepare to clash again.
Conte’s side travel to the London Stadium, looking to improve on their last visit there – a 2-1 loss in the EFL Cup marred by crowd trouble – to further exude their dominance atop the English elite. Though the aforementioned formation has served particularly well this term, perhaps reverting to 4-2-3-1 could be best to battle an Irons side who’ve struggled to defend against that.
GK: Thibaut Courtois
The Belgian stopper is largely over the poor season he endured last time out, returning to the European elite with his stoic performances between the sticks. To be fair, he’s rarely been tested.
RB: Cesar Azpilicueta
Recently described by his manager as one of the best in the world, the Spaniard is simply unflappable in whatever department he plays. Entirely dependable.
CB: David Luiz
How long does it seem that eyebrows were initially raised upon David Luiz’s return to England? What a signing the Brazilian has been, constantly impressing as he attempts to round out the trophy cabinet in west London.
LB: Marcos Alonso
Another signing who may not have wholly convinced when he first arrived, the Spaniard is as dependable as his aforementioned countryman on the opposite flank.
CM: Cesc Fabregas
Not often handed a starting berth, the World Cup winner was the man to break a dogged Swansea City side down last time out and has surely done enough to at least be considered a run out from the start. Could be key.
CM: N’Golo Kante
Hasn’t stopped running since his move to Leicester City last summer. N’Golo Kante’s importance to both the Foxes and the Blues’ title charges over the past two seasons simply cannot be understated.
RM: Victor Moses
Though he’s been enjoying life in the wing-back role, the Nigerian moving to a more standard right midfield position could allow him some more freedom against a West Ham side who’ve struggled with pace and power.
CAM: Eden Hazard
Back. To. His. Best.
Has been absolutely fantastic all season and his return to form as the Blues march up the league is no coincidence in the slightest. Likely to cause all sorts of problems.
LW: Pedro
Finally looking like the player oh so revered at Barcelona, his searing pace and clever footwork will invariably make Pedro a potent and palpable goal threat from the left-hand side, interchanging with Hazard.
ST: Diego Costa
The difference maker the last time these two sides met in the league, the clinical Spaniard will relish the chance to play a side with defensive issues.
