The 2016-17 Premier League Champions have endured an average start to their new season. After a fantastic title charge last year that saw Chelsea revolutionize the use of the 3-4-3, Antonio Conte’s men have failed to repeat their heroics on a consistent basis this time around.
Chelsea had it comparatively easy last year because of an easy schedule with no European commitments. Their little squad with a quality starting line-up was played day in day out. They had the summer to bring in more players and improve the overall depth and strength of the squad. Manager Antonio Conte outlined a few players on his wish list for Chelsea to pursue.
When the transfer window did close on August 31st, Chelsea had missed out on most of their summer targets and were short on cover in several positions. To further complicate matters, Chelsea have played without several star players on multiple occasions this season thanks to some unfortunate injuries and silly suspensions.
The Blues have played without David Luiz, Gary Cahill, Victor Moses, N’Golo Kante, Cesc Fabregas, Eden Hazard and Alvaro Morata for a number of matches without these first team regulars for the reasons mentioned above. Chelsea are still waiting for the return of their midfield dynamo N’Golo Kante and Nigerian full-back Victor Moses to return from injury.
The suspensions, injuries and a lack of determination has seen the team unable to string together a series of wins but Saturday’s 4-2 comeback win will surely restore some hope that the Blues are on their path to recovery.
Conte has promised a changed line-up for the League Cup tie against Everton in order to rest his first team stars and also to give a chance to the young players waiting in the wings.
Here is how they will look to line-up in a 3-4-3 formation:
Defence:
Willy Caballero is expected to turn up in goal for Chelsea. The 3-man defence is likely to consist of Cesar Azpilicueta, Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
Davide Zappacosta is expected at right wing-back with Kenedy on the left wing.
Midfield:
With Chelsea still only having just two fully fit senior midfielders, young Ethan Ampadu might get a chance although he is unlikely to start. Conte will look to his trusted soldier in Cesc Fabregas to partner young Tiemoue Bakayoko.
Attack:
Charly Musonda is likely to operate as a left-wing forward with Michy Batshuayi playing centre-forward and Willian as the right-wing forward. Here is how they might line up:
