Conte happy with 3-4-3

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is confident that 3-4-3 remains the right formation for his side despite their midweek EFL Cup exit. After arriving in the summer, the 47-year-old utilised a 4-5-1 in his opening few games but despite a bright start, his team’s defensive foibles were soon exposed.

That persuaded him to switch to his favoured 3-4-3 at the start of October, a tactic that had previously brought him success with both Juventus and Italy.

I think it is the right way for the players because it is a good fit for the team.

Antonio Conte

Since then, Premier League wins over Hull, Leicester and Manchester United have seen the Blues rise to fourth in the table and they sit just a single point behind leaders Manchester City heading into the weekend.

However, after shuffling his pack for Wednesday’s EFL Cup tie against West Ham, Conte’s players struggled to adapt to their formation as they went down 2-1 at the London Stadium.

Sunday sees Chelsea travel to Southampton, a team who thrived when facing the aforementioned City’s own take on a back three last time out.

The Blues are 7/5 to win at St Mary’s, with the draw 12/5 and Claude Puel’s men 11/5.

Speaking ahead of the game, Conte says he will continue with his preferred formation, as he feels it is the shape that best suites his players.

“I think it is the right way for the players because it is a good fit for the team, this system,” he said. “We have found a good balance and also we have a good offensive situation because in every game we scored a goal.

“It is different when you defend with the four and when you defend with the three, but I see a lot of positive things and we want to continue on this aspect and we are working hard to improve. We understood this way is the right way.”

Chelsea are 6/1 to win the Premier League.

Source: bet365.com