Chelsea are currently a massive 10 points clear at the top of the Premier League after a stunning season so far. Antonio Conte has managed to extract every last ounce of talent and effort from his men. This couldn’t be in greater contrast to the displays churned out last season, where an unmotivated side were simply ‘going through the motions’ for much of the campaign.
Conte has set his players a target of 24 points from their remaining 11 games in the Premier League to mathematically ensure the title returns to Stamford Bridge come what may. On current form you would fancy them to get that total, even though they are likely to need less as to miss out on the league whilst picking up 23 points would require Spurs to win all of their last 11, which just isn’t going to happen.
The title is within touching distance now, but that’s not the only prize Chelsea have their eyes on this year. The Blues also have an FA Cup quarter-final tie against Manchester United to look forward to this coming Monday. The tie will be decided on the night, as for the first time in the competitions history the tie will not be taken to a replay should the outcome after 90 minutes be a draw. Chelsea will fancy their chances against a United side who have not beaten them in their last 11 meetings – some run!
With United having toiled to a 1-1 away draw over 2000 miles away in Russia last Thursday, this is sure to have sapped some of their energy and will give Chelsea fans even more reason to be confident of toppling them. Summer signings Ibrahimovic, Mkhitaryan and Pogba all started in Russia – a big call from Jose Mourinho.
Compare this to Chelsea’s build up to the fixture, a week-long break following the victory against West Ham last Monday. It’s not just been the case this week though, United have been playing midweek fixtures regularly this campaign due to their successful EFL Cup run and Europa League commitments. This is sure to give Chelsea the physical advantage on Monday, which could prove the deciding factor in what many expect to be a tight cagey affair, which could even require extra time.
If they make it through to the semi-final by defeating United, then the Blues’ main competition is likely to come from Spurs, City or Arsenal. They have beaten all 3 sides this season and so should fancy their chances against any one of them when push comes to shove.