West Brom pose a very different challenge to anything that Antonio Conte has faced in recent weeks…
With Chelsea sweeping aside the likes of Man Utd, Everton and Man City in recent weeks – West Brom will present Conte with a different system and set of players that he is used to.
Likely to sit back and defend, Conte has largely faced very open and competitive games in recent weeks – but West Brom will likely shut up shop and make life difficult for the Blues.
This game, then, will need a very different type of player to what Conte has used in recent weeks, and the Italian’s team selection will undoubtedly have a very significant impact on how the game turns out.
There are a couple of players within the Chelsea squad that might not be considered first choice on Sunday, but Conte must make a change.
With that said, Conte simply must start these 2 Chelsea players against West Brom – agreed?
Willian has been out of the Chelsea first team in recent weeks, but his substitute role against Man City last weekend proved just how important he is going to be for Conte this season.
Willian offers something different to Pedro, in that he simply does not stop running. He is the perfect player to break through tough defences – which is exactly what West Brom will provide.
He also brings a serious goal threat, and whilst Pedro has scored a few in recent weeks – Willian’s past record speaks for itself.
If any game is tailor-made for Cesc Fabregas – it is this one.
There is no better player in the Premier League at breaking down tough defences – and again West Brom under Tony Pulis, a manager that makes life particularly difficult for opposition attackers, his passes will be absolutely essential.
He can find a pass out of nowhere – and he will need to be on form. Matic just can’t offer that.