The 3 key battles as Premier League leaders Chelsea host Swansea City

Diego Costa vs Alfie Mawson

Diego Costa has been one of the in-form strikers in the Premier League this season, having netted 15 times in 23 starts for the Blues.

The Spanish international has been the focal point of a front three which has caused no end of problems for several Premier League defences this term, and with five assists as well, he’s also been an important creator as well as finisher in Conte’s side.

And it is Swansea defender Alfie Mawson faced with the unenviable task of trying to thwart the 28-year-old on Saturday.

The 23-year-old has started 14 of the Swans 25 league games this season, and has netted three goals in his last six matches for the club, the latest coming in their 2-0 victory over champions Leicester two weeks ago.

Two man-of-the-match displays in the last month or so demonstrates that he is in good form and high in confidence, and he’ll need to recreate those displays again on Saturday if he is too frustrate Costa, and indeed keep the league leaders at bay.