The announcers said it, and I thought it, Chelsea probably could have put up 7 or 8 if they really wanted to, as could about any of the top teams vs AV... what a mess is right. I think its going to be a while before we see them back in the highest division.
It was nice seeing all of the new/young faces on the pitch for Chelsea too. While from looking at the table, 7th might be about the best they can attain, might as well get the younger guys out there. Loftus-Cheek is going to be a stud, Kenedy has great pace, Traore has a nose for goal although not sure if he's ready to lead the line, and even Clarke-Salter made an appearance.
What's your thoughts on Conte? He seems to be an interesting choice. Is there any reason why Hiddink wasn't given a chance? I know he was interim, but it seems like he has a really good relationship with the players and has been a calming presence. Either way, Conte is going to have a lot of choices to make re: the squad for next year. Lots of noise about the players who supposedly want out - Courtois, Costa, Hazard, and Fabs - and those that probably will leave or be sold - Matic, Terry, Cahill, Ivanovic, Oscar, Pedro, Remy, Falcao, and Pato. I understand that every year there is usually a lot of turnover, especially after a season such as this plus a new manager wanting some of his 'own guys', but it would seem to me they need to be cautious about how much they do turn over. This will be his first time in the BPL, and there is a definite contrast in play compared with Serie A, which is what he is most familiar with. I think they need to keep Courtois and Terry for at least another season to help with continuing to mentor Zouma and Miazga, and honestly Ivanovic hasn't looked too shabby as a center half, at least not getting fleeced down the right side anymore. I know I like Oscar more than you so he would stay for me, but at this point, I couldn't care less if Hazard goes, and same with Fabs. This season has been so disappointing for Hazard as he's been either hurt, out of form, or not really showing he cares. Fabs has been sort of the same, except at least he's been healthy and has shown a few more moments of brilliance. I liked what Pato showed and wouldn't mind seeing more of what he can offer. Thoughts on the transfer rumors of Costa leaving and bringing Lukaku back? That would be interesting.
Either way, the style of play is going to change with Conte. Most likely will see some (a lot?) 3-5-2/5-3-2, which seems to be his preferred, plus other variants like a 4-2-4 or 4-3-3 as it seems he enjoys tinkering with formations.