Almost two months in and we are beginning to get a solid idea of the stars of this new Chelsea side. The name that immediately comes to mind is Diego Costa. If he really is still carrying a hamstring strain then god help the opposition when he is fully fit – 9 goals in 7 league games tells its own sensational story. For a striker to start so well is unprecedented and he’s only going get better as his understanding with the others improves.
But he wouldn’t have that tally if it weren’t for Chelsea’s other major buy, Cesc Fabregas. It’s difficult to think of a double signing that has ever worked so quickly and well in The Premier League. Finishing was Chelsea’s problem last season – not any more. Fabregas provides the ammo and Costa hits the target with unerring accuracy.
If those two stay fit then Chelsea have to be overwhelming favourites for the title. They already have a wonderful rhythm, which is unusual so early in the season.
The defence has been the other big plus. Courtois has slotted in beautifully and Azpilicueta has kept his place on the left, in the league at least, despite the expensive signing of natural left-footer Filipe Luis. With Nemanja Matic sitting in front of the defence The Blues look solid as granite at the back.
A few positions haven’t yet been cemented. Ramires and Mikel have taken turns to play alongside Matic and Fabregas may sit there at times too. And Chelsea have great options in the attacking midfield and wide areas.
Hazard is a nailed on starter but Schurrle, Oscar, Willian and Salah have all been used in the remaining berth in the attacking 3 behind the striker. We have to say that Oscar, and particularly Schurrle, would be in most Premier League starting elevens. We are big fans of the highly accurate German.
One of them could be shoe-horned in if Fabregas sat alongside Matic in the 2 in front of the defence. But that seems foolish considering the incredible understanding that he and Costa already have. We have given Willian the nod on the right due to his pace and athleticism.
It’s got to be the most settled team in the league right now and results are exemplifying this. The next big test in the league comes against Manchester United at Old Trafford in late October. A result there and Chelsea will be hard to stop.
So here’s their best XI as we see it. Let’s have your thoughts
