Chelsea open their Premier League campaign against Burnley on Saturday. History suggests that the Blues will have to battle hard for all three points.
The Premier League returns this Saturday and Chelsea will begin their title defence at home to Burnley. Sean Dyche’s men faltered towards the end of last season but managed to avoid relegation. The Blues will be looking to put a worrying pre-season behind them and kick off with a win. History, though, will warn Antonio Conte’s men to be ready for a tough fixture.
Going back to 2009, Chelsea have been undefeated against Burnley in six games. However, in more recent times the Clarets have caused the West Londoners one or two problems.
Last season, the two squared off relatively early in the campaign, but Chelsea cantered to a stylish win. Goals from Eden Hazard, Willian and Victor Moses saw the Blues rack up their third consecutive victory to start the campaign.
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The return fixture was not so simple, though. At Turf Moor in February, Burnley put in a resilient display to hold Chelsea to a 1-1 draw. Having dropped points to Liverpool two games previous, this result put extra pressure on the league leaders.
In the ultimately successful 2014/15 campaign, Chelsea and Burnley met in their first game. Jose Mourinho’s men would come out on top in a 3-1 win. However, the second fixture at Stamford Bridge would again see the Clarets take a point. Nemanja Matic was sent off in a frustrating 1-1 draw.
Burnley have built a reputation as true fighters. With the leadership of Sean Dyche, there is simply no easy game against them. This has been proven by the dropped points over the last few years. With the Blues lacking Eden Hazard and Victor Moses, they are set for an even tougher test this time.
The Clarets will sense an opportunity to take advantage of a vulnerable Chelsea. The Blues have faltered through pre-season and have fumbled in the transfer market. Antonio Conte’s frustration has been visible for all to see. If the visitors can start fast, they may just have the West Londoners on the ropes.
Chelsea will need to have all their wits about them on Saturday. Conte must do his utmost to draw positives from pre-season and hark back to their success some four months ago. Otherwise, the resilience of Burnley may cause the Blues to stumble out of the gates.