As Chelsea go 3 points clear at the top of the Premier League the Blues fans in The Tavern rock nervously on their bar stalls dreading a massive slip up at the weekend against West Brom.
Since the 0-3 loss at Arsenal on 24 September, leaving Chelsea languishing in 8th place, the Blues have looked like a different team.
Following that defeat, Chelsea have won 8 premier league games in a row, a feat last achieved under Jose Mourinho in the 2006/7 season.
The key to their rejuvenation has been Antonio Conte’s decision to change the formation to a 3-4-3 and having a consistent first XI.
Indeed, Chelsea have the lowest number of changes in the Premier League this season, making just eight alterations to the starting lineup over the entire campaign.
As the season enters the ‘tricky’ Christmas period the Blues fans in The Tavern are worried about potential threats to their title ambitions and West Brom are just that.
The Baggies are packed with power and creativity and are currently sitting in 7th place in the league.
In Nacer Chadli and Matt Phillips, they have a real threat in the attacking third, the latter has had a hand in six goals in his last four games (3 goals, 3 assists) and is their key man.
This is a difficult game for Conte, they’ll need to win, and maybe win ugly, against a well organised and powerful Baggies side who are having a great start to the season.
With that in mind, these TWO players must start for Chelsea at the weekend in order for them to continue their fine form and beat the Baggies.
N’GOLO KANTE
The little French international is a key player for Chelsea this season, playing every minute of all 14 Premier League games so far.
The Blues in the Tavern liken him to Claude Makelele and you can see why.
This season he has averaged the most tackles and interceptions per game, 3.1 and 2.9 respectively (more than any other Chelsea player).
Kante’s energy and determination in midfield will be vital if Chelsea are to nullify the West Brom threat and record a ninth straight win in the Premier League.
DIEGO COSTA
The big Brazilian-born Spanish international is a complete nightmare for any defender.
Nicolas Otamendi was mercilessly bullied by him in the recent 3-1 win at Man City and on his day he is totally unplayable.
Costa’s movement is exceptional; his strength and goal threat make him one of the deadliest strikers in the world.
The Blues’ hitman has scored 11 goals in 14 appearances and the Tavern are convinced he’ll add to that tally at the weekend.
