Antonio Conte has revealed that Chelsea have been practising playing without a recognised forward in training as the Italian's decision to field Eden Hazard in place of Diego Costa against Bournemouth on Boxing Day paid off.
Conte was without the Premier League's top scorer Costa for Chelsea's clash against the Cherries at Stamford Bridge but, instead of starting striker Michy Batshuayi, the Italian opted to have Hazard playing up front.
The move worked as the Belgian set up Pedro for the opener before winning a penalty and converting it in the second half as Chelsea went on to secure a 3-0 win - their 12th consecutive top-flight victory.
Costa will be available for selection against Stoke City on New Year's Eve and, with questions being asked of Batshuayi's role in the current Chelsea team, Conte insisted the Belgian striker remains a part of his plans - although he admitted he prefers playing without a striker in Costa's absence.
"We played a good game, we could have scored more, but I am happy with the attitude of the players," Conte told BBC Sport after the 3-0 win.
"We played without two important players [Costa and N'Golo Kante, who were suspended] but I think we played very well.
"This is the first time we played without a real forward, we tried this in training and I think for us at the moment this situation is the best, but I don’t forget Michy [Batshuayi] because he is a young player with great talent.
"He is adapting to this league and it is football, in the future I trust in him.
"To win 12 games in a row is not easy in this league. It’s a fantastic run but it’s important to continue that now. In four days we have another tough game and we have to prepare very well. Because now, every team wants to beat you."
