Though the summer window didn’t prove to be an overly productive time for the Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern, the club have made a fairly strong start to the season.
Indeed, the Blues in our bar are delighted about their recent form and, having made their Champions League return a few days ago, hope that continues against bitter rivals Arsenal on Sunday.
It’s a big test for Antonio Conte, who has to shuffle his pack for games in quick succession for one of the first times since taking over the Stamford Bridge giants last year.
Still, those propping up our bar back the Italian to get it right against Arsene Wenger and continue Chelsea’s recent trend of beating the Gunners in SW6, despite the recent losses in the FA Cup final and Community Sheild.
With that in mind, here’s the 3-4-3 XI Chelsea fans in the Tavern want fielded against Arsenal on Sunday.
GK: Thibaut Courtois

Not too much competition for the Belgian, though it’s hard to see many ‘keepers on the planet able to dislodge him between the sticks.
One of the best in Europe, Courtois will need to be at his best against the likes of Alexis Sanchez and Alexandre Lacazette.
RWB: Victor Moses

Sent off in the FA Cup and scoring in the Community Shield, Victor Moses always has an impact against Arsenal it seems.
Hopefully for Chelsea, the Nigeria international it’s a positive one this time, as he’s likely to have a lot of the ball in attacking positions.
CB: Cesar Azpilicueta

Mr. Reliable, Azpilicueta is the heartbeat of Chelsea’s defence. The Spaniard can be called upon in every defensive duty and his presence alongside the rest of the backline gives Conte a wonderfully assured feeling.
CB: Antonio Rudiger

Has it all to prove after struggling against Harry Kane and Jamie Vardy, though comes with a fairly big reputation. Will have a busy day ahead amid Arsenal’s vast array of attackers, so needs to be at his very best.
CB: David Luiz

One of the best defenders in the league, the Brazilian gives Chelsea an option when stepping into midfield too. Rarely puts a foot wrong in a three man defence.
LWB: Marcos Alonso

Loves a London derby with goals against Arsenal and Spurs since joining Chelsea, which are added bonuses to his diligent defensive work.
The Spaniard will have a lot to do when tracking compatriot Hector Bellerin, however.
CDM: N’Golo Kante

A man of the match performance against Leicester City shows Kante has no intention of slowing down, even in his third season on these shores.
Indeed, the dynamic Frenchman is still improving on the ball and his constant harrying of the opposition is crucial to their set-up.
CDM: Tiémoué Bakayoko

The summer signing gives Chelsea a more explosive option alongside his compatriot, carrying the team forward with his long strides from midfield. Yet to get into full flow after an injury, his pace and power could prove a nightmare for Arsenal.
RW: Pedro

The perfect wide man, Pedro’s searing pace and footballing intelligence make him a threat either inside or out the opposing full-back.
Should have luck against an Arsenal side not renowned for their defending.
ST: Alvaro Morata

Has taken to life in the Premier League like a duck to water, despite some initial doubts. A technically gifted centre-forward, the club record signing is a huge threat in the air, something Arsenal will hate.
LW: Eden Hazard

Back to fitness after a broken ankle, Hazard’s goal against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge last season is still talked about in the Tavern.
One of the best players in Europe, the sight of him linking up with Morata should excite everyone connected with Chelsea.







