3-4-3: The alternative XI that Conte should consider playing against Hull City
Conte has a few selection dilemmas on his hands if he wants to secure victory against Hull City on Sunday…
The game, as every game is from here on out, is must win for Conte – but could it be a perfect time to do a bit of experimentation?
The Italian has largely opted to use a fairly similar team since he switched to a 3-4-3, and whilst it has worked so far – it isn’t going to work forever.
Conte simply must ensure that everyone in his squad is playing and ready to be called upon, and the only way to do that is to ensure that they are getting regular game time.
In reality, the game against Hull City is one that the Blues should be comfortably winning, and so it would make sense for Conte to give a few fringe players a chance. Maybe a couple of youngsters could even get a run-out…
With that said, this is the alternative XI that Conte should consider playing against Hull City…
GK – Thibaut Courtois
Thibaut Courtois is always going to play regardless of opposition, and that won’t change either way against Hull City.
Unfortunately for Begovic, he is going to have to settle for another role on the bench.
CB – Kurt Zouma
Kurt Zouma has been back for a few weeks and deserves a start.
David Luiz has looked poor lately. This could be the perfect chance to get Zouma involved.
CB – Gary Cahill
Chelsea’s captain in the absence of John Terry, Gary Cahill will retain his place either way.
A lack of depth gives Conte very little choice.
CB – Cesar Azpilicueta
A similar situation with Cesar Azpilicueta.
The Spaniard has performed fantastically this season, and he shows no sign of losing fitness.
LWB – Nathan Ake
Nathan Ake is back at Chelsea and ready to go.
He’s had a few weeks to settle, and this game gives a Alonso a chance to have a rest.
CDM – N’Golo Kante
N’Golo Kante’s presence allows Conte to make a few changes around him, which is a huge bonus.
He is a calming presence in the midfield.
CDM – Ruben Loftus-Cheek
Ruben Loftus-Cheek could come in for a well-earned start.
He hasn’t really had much of a chance this season, and so a start makes a lot of sense.
Fabregas and Matic can sit this one out.
RWB – Ola Aina
Ola Aina looked likely to become a pretty regular feature earlier in the season, but the rise of Victor Moses has put a stop to that.
Nonetheless, Moses needs a rest – and it is time for Aina to step up.
LW – Pedro
Eden Hazard has not been up to par over the last few weeks, and Pedro should play on the left-hand side in his absence.
Not much needs to be said about Pedro – he has arguably been Chelsea’s player of the season so far.
ST – Michy Batshuayi
Michy Batshuayi hasn’t had much of a chance this season, and definitely deserves one.
Diego Costa deserves to start the game on the bench after his actions over the last week or so.
RW – Willian
Willian would be starting every week if it were not for the fine form of Pedro.
The Brazilian has been on fire in recent weeks, and will likely put in another solid shift if he gets the nod.