Cesc Fabregas warned his critics against writing his Chelsea obituary after he inspired the Blues to victory at Sunderland.
The Spanish midfielder was named in the Chelsea starting lineup for just the second time since Conte’s switch to a 3-4-3 and on this occasion, rather than in the win at Manchester City earlier this month, Fabregas had been handed a starting role for tactical reasons rather than an injury to Nemanja Matic.
Against a Sunderland side who named seven defenders in their starting lineup Fabregas’ eye for a pass was crucial as he looked the only player on the field capable of prising opponents apart. Indeed he was to get the only goal on 40 minutes, combining well with Willian before slotting past Jordan Pickford.
Fabregas had been warned by Conte that his future could not be guaranteed beyond the January transfer window but, with Oscar set to depart instead, he is now eyeing a more regular role in the Chelsea side.
“In football today people forget very, very, very quickly who you are, and what you can do. Hopefully now I can get a run of games in the team,” Fabregas told reporters.
“You have seen many times that teams win titles with 1-0 wins. Hopefully we can keep it up. But the result doesn't reflect the game.”
Fabregas’ goal secured a 10th straight win for Chelsea, taking them six points clear of Liverpool and Arsenal at the top of the table, in a largely disappointing display.
The Spaniard admitted that the Blues had failed to take the chances that came their way in the second half but saw plenty of positives as they ground out victory against the league’s bottom side.
And Fabregas himself believes he will only improve if he gets more chances in Conte’s 3-4-3.
“We need to kill games off, we had so many chances but the performance was very good. We felt strong,” he added.
“People forget that tonight is just the second time in my life that I have played this system, I am getting used to it, I have lots of players in front of me in space and protection behind me.
“We want to keep winning, this period in the year is important and we can say a lot.”
