Chelsea set to face new bogey team in Swansea City
Chelsea have had a tough time against Swansea City in recent years. Can the Blues overcome their streak of bad luck this weekend?
Premier League football returns this weekend after a FA Cup break. Chelsea are in action on Saturday, taking on Swansea City in the traditional 3pm kick-off slot. The Swans have proven a tough nut to crack for the Blues in recent times, so can Antonio Conte figure out a way around them?
Chelsea have failed to win their last three games against the Welsh side. The contests have seen some deal of controversy as well.
The first of their two clashes last season ended in a 2-2 draw. Thibaut Courtois was sent off during the game while it was also scene to the infamous falling out between Eva Carneiro and Jose Mourinho. A 1-0 loss at the Liberty Stadium followed later in the year as Guus Hiddink was handed his first league defeat since returning to Chelsea.
The Blues drew 2-2 with Swansea earlier this season in the first of a four-game winless run. It would be this run that would force Conte to switch to a back three.
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However, despite the club’s successes since, the Swans will still feel that they have Chelsea’s number. Furthermore, they have been on a good run in recent weeks, winning three out of their last four games under Paul Clement.
Hence, it is imperative that the Blues are focused and ready to scrap for any opportunity. Chelsea may be the home team, but with Premier League survival still an issue Swansea will be eager to make life as difficult as possible.
Furthermore, Arsenal and Manchester City both have the weekend off (due to the EFL Cup final) and thus the Blues have an opportunity to increase the gap between them and the chasing pack. Coming off a commendable point at the fortress that is Turf Moor, Chelsea must kick on.
Swansea, meanwhile, have enjoyed a weekend off. This could both benefit and hinder them. No football in 14 days may cause the Swans to lack match sharpness. In this case, a swift start from the Blues could put the game beyond reach by the half-time whistle.
On the other hand, a refreshed squad may be able to take the game to the home side. In the midst of a gruelling schedule, a fortnight off could work wonders.
What do you think? Will Chelsea be able to overcome their new bogey foes? Let us know in the comments section below!