Last season was a fantastic one for the Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern…

Antonio Conte enjoyed a fantastic start to life in the English capital, turning a faltering Chelsea team into Premier League winners once again – with the Italian’s tactical mastery proving too much for his Premier League rivals.

Their preparations for the new campaign have been far from ideal, but with so many quality players within the Chelsea first team, there is no doubting that the Blues will impress in the new season.

The 2017/18 Premier League campaign doesn’t start until next weekend, but Chelsea are set to feature in the annual curtain raiser this Sunday – with a game against Arsenal coming up for the Blues.

It will be a tough fixture, and Conte will want to get one back on the side that cost him a league and cup double last season.

However, in order to stand a good chance of winning, Conte must ensure that he picks the right players, and that might mean making a few bold choices with regards to his starting XI.

With that said, these 2 players simply must start for Chelsea against Arsenal on Sunday…

Michy Batshuayi

Antonio Conte will likely feel under pressure to start with Alvaro Morata, given how much he cost the Blues this summer.

However, if any player deserves to start on Sunday, it is Michy Batshuayi.

The Belgian scored frequently throughout the summer, and towards the end of last season he proved that given the opportunity, he will score goals.

He really deserves the chance to impress.

Pedro

Pedro has missed much of pre-season through injury, but Antonio Conte needs to do all he can to get him available.

Given that Eden Hazard is unavailable through injury, Chelsea are desperately lacking attacking midfielders, and so Pedro will be required to partner Willian in the attack.

He has been training at Chelsea’s training ground, and whilst he may not be 100%, Conte needs him.