3 things Conte absolutely must do for Chelsea to beat Bournemouth on Boxing Day
For Antonio Conte and Chelsea, every game is high stakes – and the Blues can’t afford to lose…
Things are looking rosy for Chelsea at the moment, with Antonio Conte’s men currently sitting at the top of the Premier League – but things could yet come crashing down for the boys in blue.
The festive period brings with it a flurry of games in quick succession, and this Monday brings Bournemouth to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea are well ahead in the title race, but one poor game could see Antonio Conte’s side fumble – and that is not what he wants ahead of the new year.
That being said, Bournemouth will be a tough task – and in order to win, Conte must make some pretty tough decisions.
With that said, here are 3 things Conte absolutely must do for Chelsea to beat Bournemouth on Boxing Day
Michy Batshuayi
Michy Batshuayi is the natural replacement for Diego Costa in this side, but you wouldn’t bet against Conte following in typical Chelsea fashion against Bournemouth.
In the past, Chelsea managers have often opted for experience over youth, even if it means playing Cesc Fabregas as a 9 due to a lack of experienced offensive options – but against Bournemouth, young Batshuayi simply must get a run out.
He has surely been chomping at the bit to get started, and you can bet that he will put in a good performance if he is selected.
Batshuayi is a natural forward, and he must be given a chance to shine.
Give The Kids A Chance
Bournemouth will be a tough challenge, but in the context of the opponents surrounding this clash – the game should be easily winnable for Antonio Conte.
Because of that, he should use the opportunity to bring in a bit of fresh meat, most notably Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Nathaniel Chalobah.
Both young Englishmen deserve a chance to shine, and with N’Golo Kante out and Bournemouth unlikely to threaten going forward – now is the perfect time.
It’s a bold decision, but one that will undoubtedly pay off handsomely.
Change It Up
Antonio Conte has largely utilised a similar tactical approach for the last 10 games – and it has worked.
However, in recent weeks the Blues have been limited to 1-0 wins, and whilst they are crucial in any season – it does suggest that Chelsea have been found out somewhat.
Teams are finding a way to limit the effectiveness of Conte’s men, and that is something that needs seeing too.
Now, he shouldn’t change the system entirely, but a minor tweak or 2 wouldn’t go a miss. For example, a wider midfield line or a more attacking central midfield could be just enough to throw Bournemouth off – and just enough to give Chelsea the 3 points.