Conte happy to prove prognosticators wrong with Chelsea club-record win

With the 3-0 win over AFC Bournemouth on Boxing Day, Chelsea set a new club record for consecutive Premier League wins with 12. The Blues are now just one win behind Arsenal’s single-season record, but the way Chelsea have gone about winning has been second to none.

Chelsea played a slightly different style of game today without a real centre forward in the starting lineup. Plenty has been said about the decision to not start Batshuayi instead of the suspended Diego Costa, but beyond just that personnel decision, Conte lauded his players’ attitude and adjustment, even as many a Fàbregas pass in search of a proper center forward went begging.

"We played a good game, we could have scored more, but I am happy with the attitude of the players. We played without two important players [in Diego Costa and N'Golo Kanté, who were suspended] but I think we played very well."

-Antonio Conte; Source: BBC Sport via Evening Standard

Unlike many of Chelsea’s recent opponents, Bournemouth tried something other than to sit back, defend deep, and hope for the best and especially through Arsenal loanee Jack Wilshere, posed a decent threat at times. Thankfully, our defenders alongside goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois managed to keep it sturdy and steady at the back, earning themselves yet another clean sheet this season. And so, our amazing winning streak continues.

"I think we played against a good opponent that tried to stop us. We must be prepared for that and I’m pleased with the performance."

-Antonio Conte; Source: West London Sport

"To win 12 games in a row is not easy in this league. It’s a fantastic run but it’s important to continue that now. In four days we have another tough game and we have to prepare very well. Because now, every team wants to beat you."

-Antonio Conte; Source: BBC Sport via London Evening Standard

Chelsea are now set to face Stoke City on the last day of the year, looking to contain the dangers provided by likes of footballing renegades Xherdan Shaqiri, Bojan and Joe Allen. A good chance to close the year on a good note...