No side has retained their Premier League crown since Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United side back in the 2008-09 season. After an indifferent pre-season and a community shield loss on penalties to Arsenal, the signs of Chelsea retaining their title were ominous. An opening day defeat to Burnley did nothing to quell the fears that a repeat post-title ‘Mourinho Season’ may be looming. Although, Craig Pawson’s refereeing performance left a lot to be desired, losing 3-0 at home to Burnley at half-time is worrying, ten men or not. The defensive organisation and desire didn’t seem to be there from the players. Conte struck an uncharacteristically subdued and lonely figure on the sidelines.

Other sides, specifically the Manchester sides have spent money, and big money. Their squads are looking considerably stronger compared to last season. That opinion is shared by bookies Betway with both Manchester sides tipped ahead of Chelsea to win the title. Guardiola had shipped out players that he didn’t want, and replaced them with better quality early in the window. The City owners had certainly backed their manager, but question marks remain over their defence. United have also poached one of our unsung heroes from last season, Nemanja Matic. It leaves a bitter taste seeing him settle into the United side so easily and unleash the likes of Pogba. The United bench on the opening weekend of the season, in comparison to ours, should have been a wake up call to the Chelsea board.

Going into the Spurs game, morale was low. Questions surrounding the manager’s future had begun to surface from the press, and we were missing key players through a mixture of injuries and suspensions. In all honesty, I think most fans would have taken a draw heading into the game, but we knew we couldn’t lose. Thankfully, Conte had been going about his business quietly on the training ground.

Chelsea’s shape took everyone by surprise. Conte reverting back to the tried and trusted ‘cantenaccio’ system he had used whilst at Juve and with the Italian National Team. We overloaded the central area of the field and Spurs’ danger men Ali and Eriksen simply couldn’t find the space, even on a massive Wembley pitch. Spurs will argue that they were on top, but their possession didn’t translate to chances, the best of the match falling to Chelsea. Spurs will soon improve at their new home and get over their ‘Wembley hoodoo’ – not many sides will go there any pick up all three points this season. Conte had outfoxed, the so-called ‘super coach’ that is Pochettino.

There were many standout performances. Luiz was imperious in the central midfield; Christensen looks like a real gem (personally I would have him in the team ahead of Rudiger), and a special mention to Bakayoko playing ninety mintues on his debut. Also, does anyone else think Alonso is now the best free-kick taker in the Prem?

The result against Spurs was ‘more than three points’ and has transformed the previously negative mood around the club to one of optimism. The result should act as a springboard going into the rest of the season, and the players should be now full of confidence heading into upcoming fixtures.

With that in mind hear are three factors which could shape whether The Blues retain their Premier League crown…

Antonio Conte

Keeping an engaged Conte at the club is essential to Chelsea standing a chance of retaining their Premier League title. Conte took the league by storm after his arrival from Italy last season. His enthusiasm and energy on the touchline translated to the performances of the players on the pitch. His switch to a three at the back system was masterstroke and culminated in a record equaling thirteen game winning streak, which leapfrogged The Blues to the top of the table. Conte is among only three other managers to have won the Premier League in their first season, the others being Mourinho, Ancelotti and Pellegrini. It will be interesting to see him apply his tactical nous in the Champions League this season.

Injuries

Chelsea suffered very few injuries last season. Chelsea’s medical department is renowned for being one of the best in the world and Conte had the opportunity to practically name the same side most weeks last season. Competing in Europe this season will add an extra strain on the squad, and it is important to keep as many players fit as possible.

Morata stepping up

Whatever you make of Diego Costa there is no doubt he is a brilliant player. On his day he is a match for anyone. He is one of very few strikers who can hold the ball up, run in behind, has good technique and works hard for the team. At this point in time, however, it seems that he is unlikely to play for the Blues again. As a result, Morata will be required to adapt quickly to the physicality of the league, and playing on a weekly basis. He was one of the few bright sparks from the defeat to Burnley, Torres esque dare I say. Being the lone striker he will be required to be a focal point for the team as well as chip with important goals throughout the season.