Chelsea boss Antonio Conte admits he is expecting an extremely tough test when his side face Arsenal on Saturday.
The Blues started the season expertly, winning their first three games but a draw at Swansea on their return from the international break and last week’s defeat to Liverpool has seen them drop down the pecking order.
Some pride was restored with their midweek EFL Cup win over Leicester and on Saturday they travel across the capital to take on fellow title hopefuls Arsenal.
Chelsea will again be without captain John Terry due to an ankle injury, meaning David Luiz will partner Gary Cahill in central defence.
Following the defeat to Liverpool, Conte is understandably desperate to prove his side are on the right track by bouncing back with a positive result.
However, the Italian is expecting a tough test in north London, and insists they should not be judged on the outcome of the game as it is still early days in his reign.
He told his Friday press conference: “This is a big game between two big rivals and it’s important to play a good game, especially after our game against Liverpool.
“We face a good team and I’m sure Arsenal will fight until the end to win the title. They are a good team with young players who are a good technical, footballing team.
“I’m sure that we are working to try and improve, and reach a high level in every game. It’s normal when you start work with a new team that you need time, but I’m confident about this and we can improve.”
Chelsea are 3.10 to win at the Emirates, with the draw 3.50 and the Gunners priced at 2.38.
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