Antonio Conte a tactical genius? The glowing stats behind Chelsea’s 3-4-3 formation change

Chelsea __have vastly improved under Conte’s new system. (Getty Images)

Chelsea’s resurgence under Antonio Conte continued with an impressive 2-0 victory over Southampton on Sunday.

Goals from Eden Hazard and Diego Costa secured the victory which has kept Chelsea just a point behind Manchester City, who lead the Premier League via goal difference.

Chelsea’s hopes of securing at least a top-four place looked under threat earlier this season and the 3-0 defeat to Arsenal at the end of September forced Conte into making a drastic formation change.

But the Italian’s new 3-4-3 system is getting the best out of Chelsea at both ends of the pitch.

GOALS CONCEDED

FOUR GAMES BEFORE FORMATION SWITCH: 7

FOUR GAMES AFTER FORMATION SWITCH: 0

Conte’s men __have not yet conceded a goal in the Premier League since the 3-4-3 system was introduced for the 2-0 victory over Hull City on October 1.

Chelsea have also reduced the number of shots they’ve faced.

Gary Cahill has looked at home in Chelsea’s back three. (Getty Images)

SHOTS ON TARGET CONCEDED

FOUR GAMES BEFORE FORMATION SWITCH: 12

FOUR GAMES AFTER FORMATION SWITCH: 8

In attack, Chelsea have scored nearly twice as many goals in the four games after the formation change, while Conte’s men have also created more chances.

GOALS SCORED

FOUR GAMES BEFORE FORMATION SWITCH: 6

FOUR GAMES AFTER FORMATION SWITCH: 11

Diego Costa has scored eight Premier League goals this term. (Getty Images)

KEY CHANCES CREATED

FOUR GAMES BEFORE FORMATION SWITCH: 5

FOUR GAMES AFTER FORMATION SWITCH: 7

AVERAGE POSSESSION

FOUR GAMES BEFORE FORMATION SWITCH: 54.6%

FOUR GAMES AFTER FORMATION SWITCH: 50.9%

‘I think it is the right way for the players because it is a good fit for the team, this system,’ Conte said before the win over Southampton.

‘We have found a good balance and also we have a good offensive situation because in every game we scored.

‘It is different when you defend with four and when you defend with three defenders but I see a lot of positive things and we want to continue on this aspect and we are working hard to improve.’