The 3 key battles as Chelsea host Arsenal on Saturday

Cesar Azpilicueta vs Alexis Sanchez

It remains to be seen where Alexis Sanchez plays on Saturday, given that there are fitness doubts surrounding striker Olivier Giroud.

Nonetheless, the Chilean will either be up top or in the advanced left position, two areas on the pitch where he has been deadly this term.

The 28-year-old is the joint top-scorer in the Premier League with 15 goals in just 23 appearances this season, while he has also laid on eight assists to demonstrate his absolute importance to his Arsenal side.

Regardless of where he plays on Saturday, he’ll likely come up against Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta throughout the contest, arguably the most consistent defender in the league since his arrival back in 2012.

The Spanish international has been excellent as both a right-back and a left-back during his time in West London, before seamlessly adapting to Conte’s back three this term, with his strength and reading of the game, as well as ability to play down the side, perfect for the right side of the three.

It means that, should Sanchez play down the left, it will be up to the 27-year-old to get tight to him and allow him little time to pick a pass or cross, or indeed cut inside, where he has had success this term.

It should be a fascinating battle between two quality players on Saturday.