Antonio Conte was always going to face hurdles and challenges in what seemed a dead cert run in to the Premier League title for Chelsea.

The loss of a star player for at least a couple of weeks is perhaps the biggest hurdle any manager can face within the confines of a season, however, having lost Eden Hazard on the eve of an international break is a blessing for the former Juventus manager.

It does, however, appear that the Belgium international will miss Chelsea’s return to domestic action against Crystal Palace at the start of April, meaning there is a gap to be filled.

Conte has been hailed for his system change earlier this season, however, it has come at a cost with some notable victims falling by the wayside somewhat this season. The likes of Cesc Fabregas as well as the departed Branislav Ivaonvic and Oscar come to mind.

However, perhaps the most unexpected fall from the limelight at Stamford Bridge was that of last season’s standout performer, Willian. The Brazil international has, thanks to the move to a 3-4-3 and the emergence of Victor Moses, fallen down the pecking order somewhat under the guise of Conte.

However, having come back into the frame with his canny freekick at Stoke over the weekend, the No. 22 will feel his chance has come to make his mark on the Premier League run-in.

The former Shakhtar Donetsk man was head and shoulders above the rest of Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea squad in a disappointing term last time out, one in which Hazard only turned up in the closing weeks. Wiliian will now be hoping for a mirrored situation this season.

The now-injured winger has been one of the main men for the champions elect this season, however, with a chance now on the table for his Brazilian peer, Willian will be hoping to burst back onto the scene with some late performances as the Blues tighten their grip on the Premier League title and go in search of an FA Cup in order to complete the double.

With a limited amount of time to earn a more regular spot back in the Stamford Bridge setup, Willian will be desperate to impress against the Eagles and could well give Conte a serious selection headache, not only for the run in but next season as well.