Antonio Conte hints Chelsea could play with three centre backs this season - but not in a 3-5-2 formation

Hard taskmaster: Antonio Conte
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Sam Long9 September 2016

Antonio Conte has hinted Chelsea could play with three central defenders this season - but not in a 3-5-2 formation similar to the setup he used while in charge of the Italian national team and Juventus.

The 47-year-old is yet to settle on a preferred formation since taking charge of the Blues and has bolstered his defensive options with the deadline day signings of David Luiz and Marcos Alonso.

The pair are unlikely to start Sunday's game against Swansea but Chelsea fans remain intrigued as to how Conte will decide to set his team up for the remainder of his debut campaign in English football.

With Luiz, Gary Cahill, John Terry, Kurt Zouma and Branislav Ivanovic to choose from it has been suggested Conte could revert to the 3-5-2 system that has served him so well during his career.

However, the Chelsea manager is adamant his players are not suited to that particular system, but appears to be open to experimenting with three central defenders.

"It can be an opportunity, a solution. It can happen in the future," Conte told the club's official website.

"This squad can play with 3-4-3, not 3-5-2 like the Italy national team or Juventus, because of the characteristics of the players."

Chelsea's ability to play with three central defenders is likely to hinge on Luiz and Conte is adamant the Brazil international will be used in defence rather than in a holding midfield role.

But the fiery Italian has also warned his new signing that he needs to improve defensively if he is to progress at Stamford Bridge.

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"I like a defender who likes to play football. I know David can improve in defensive situations.

"Every player until the end of their career can improve. I say that from my experience as a footballer.

"David Luiz is 29, a fantastic age for him to become one of the best defenders in the world. I am seeing great commitment from him," Conte added.

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