Chelsea’s squad depth has been the talk of the Transfer Tavern this week and their fans are right to have cause for concern.

The Blues were beaten by Arsenal in the Community Shield last weekend after a disastrous penalty shootout. But it was Antonio Conte’s pre-match squad list that took the headlines.

The Italian named just 24 players, including four academy players.

Fortunately, Chelsea do have the quality to surmount another title charge this season, but if injuries come into play, the Blues could be in trouble.

Eden Hazard and new signing Tiemoue Bakayoko were missing from the Community Shield and both will miss out on the opening day.

Conte’s side registered a mediocre display against the Gunners and the Blues boss has a number of key decision to make over his midfield personnel.

We think this is the perfect midfield that must start against Burnley…

MARCOS ALONSO

The Spaniard had an impressive season last year upon his return to the Premier League.

Significantly, Chelsea lack depth in this role, and so Conte has little choice but to start with the Spaniard.

He had a very strong debut year in England, and so he is expected to get even better. He needs to stay fit, though, and Chelsea need to bring a bit more depth in before the summer is out.

N’GOLO KANTE

The PFA Player of the Year was sublime for the Blues in the 2016/17 campaign. He made it back to back league titles with two different sides for the first time in Premier League history.

Chelsea fans should expect no change in performances this season, with his ruthless and energetic performances really proving important for the Blues. 

CESC FABREGAS

Cesc Fabregas deserves more of a role this season, and given that Tiemoue Bakayoko won’t be available, the Spaniard is likely to start.

He lacks the defensive edge that this role desperately requires, but Conte has little other choice.

Expect him to focus on moving the ball forward and passing it on to the strikers.

VICTOR MOSES

Victor Moses proved his versatility last season as he established himself as a rampaging right-back for Chelsea. The Nigerian doesn’t appear to have his place under threat with no clear challenger.

Though, reports claim the Blues are looking at PSG’s Serge Aurier.