What Chelsea need to do to remain on top

Sport360 staff 16:11 13/05/2017
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  • Chelsea secured the Premier League title on Friday after substitute Michy Batshuayi’s 82nd-minute goal earned Antonio Conte’s side a hard-earned 1-0 victory at West Bromwich Albion.

    The celebrations in the dressing room dominated social media well into the night but if they want a repeat of the same this time next  year, there are a few things that need addressing.

    It’s tough at the top and here, we look at what the newly crowned champions need to do to stay there.

    THE LEADERSHIP QUESTION

    How do Chelsea replace John Terry? Do they need to? It is a question which has long troubled the Blues, but with the defence resilient, perhaps only Terry’s leadership will be missed.

    And his absence could allow quieter players, such as Cesar Azpilicueta, to speak up.

    CASH IN ON COSTA?

    Diego Costa has admitted agitating for a return to Atletico Madrid before and Chelsea could cash in on the striker if a big-money offer is received.

    He has two years left on his current contract, is aged 29 in October and had lean streaks at times. The prospect of a January move to China almost derailed Chelsea, who may look for a new attacking focal point.

    BALANCING GOALS

    The Champions League creates an altogether different challenge for Conte, who complained at the proximity of some fixtures without being in Europe.

    Conte made winning the Premier League appear easy. Repeating the feat, with rivals Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham all sure to strengthen, will be all the more difficult.

    KEEP HAZARD

    Eden Hazard has been linked with a £100 million move to Real Madrid. The Belgium playmaker demonstrated his ability consistently for the Blues, showing his value time and again.

    He is an integral figure for Chelsea, who should remind him that he would not be at Real.

    INCOMING PLAYERS

    Head coach Antonio Conte has been saying for some time that more players are needed for a dual English and European assault.

    Chelsea relied on a small core group, but with Champions League football next season now need to bolster the ranks with quality. Or they may place faith in youngsters like Ruben Loftus-Cheek and returning loanees such as Andreas Christiansen.

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