Chelsea are currently at the summit of the league table after securing their 7th wins on the trot against Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge. Within a couple of months, Antonio Conte has instantly made an impact in his first English top-flight experience, largely after the intelligent introduction of the 3-4-3 formation. Besides the new blueprint, Eden Hazard’s superb form is another key factor.
Following the 2-1 London Derby victory last Saturday, the talented winger lauds Liverpool and Manchester City to be their main rivals in the Premier League title race this season.
“Man City and Liverpool. They are both good. If we want to be there at the end, then we have to finish above them,” the former Lille forward told the British media when questioned about which teams Chelsea will keep up the pace in the title race.
And the course of the table certainly justifies the viewpoint of the Belgian international. There’s only a single point gap between the Blues and both contenders with goal differences separating the second and third positions. All three contenders are well-oiled machines that are capable of clinching the ultimate reward and previous game week paints a picture of what can be expected until May.
The first match of the week saw Manchester City leaping to the top spot after a 2-1 triumph over Burnley at the Turf Moor. Two chaotic moments in the home side’s 18-yard box saw Sergio Aguero punishing them twice. Hours later, Klopp’s men managed to grind out a worthy victory over Sunderland, who were frustrating them for the most part of the match with an all-out defensive approach. Liverpool recycled the possession and attempts over and over until Divork Origi broke the deadlock in the 75th minute and James Milner doubling the lead in the 91st minute with a well-struck penalty.
Knowing nothing but a win was required, Chelsea usurped the Merseyside team from the peak with a 2-1 victory against Tottenham Hotspur. The home side wasn’t at their usual best in the first half yet came from behind thanks to beautiful finishes from Pedro and Victor Moses, the latter being the most improved player under Conte’s tutelage. Hazard did involve in few offensive movements but no real moment of significance.
The 25-year-old also mentioned that not being a part of any European competitions this term has given them ample of time to focus on league fixtures. Alike Liverpool, who are not shackled to European hurdles in midweek, Chelsea’s new style of play demands a high level of fitness and concentration from the players.
“We have one week to prepare for the game and at the end of the week, we know what to do when we play,” the winger added.
“Last year, we were just doing recovery so we weren’t always ready for the game but that’s not the case now. We’re concentrating on the opposition during the week and give everything.
“We do lots of tactical work and video work, it depends who we’re playing. We do everything to be prepared.
Next weekend, the Blues make a tricky trip to the Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City, who are unbeaten in the last six league encounters. They certainly will be a more challenging opponent for Conte’s side, considering the amount of sharpshooters available in the team. Chelsea need to be on the front foot as soon as the kick-off whistle is blown and Eden Hazard must find his scoring boots once again.
If Chelsea return home with maximum points, it would be a real statement of intent that Conte has an eye of a tiger for silverwares in his first season.