Conte: Why Kante, Costa Suspension Is Best For Chelsea

Antonio Conte has claimed that missing the duo of Diego Costa and N’Golo Kante against Bournemouth is ‘a good test’ for them.

The impressive duo of Diego Costa and N’Golo Kante are suspended in the game against Bournemouth, but the Italian believes his men will respond effectively to the absence of the suspended pair, insisting it is important to test the squad depth.

“For this reason this is a good test for us because we play this game without two of our important players for our team,” he said.

“For this reason it’s important for this test to read the situation in our squad.

“Also to give the possibility to play some players who until now are not playing a lot. Or to find another solution.

“What I may see this week is very important.”

Kante has been a key figure in Chelsea’s midfield area since they switched to the 3-4-3 formation in October while Costa has continued to impress with his good goal ratio at the Bridge.

Chelsea will hope to extend their winning streak to 12 games against Eddie Howe’s men, a victory for them will edge them closer to Arsenal’s all-time record of 14-game winning streak in the Premier league.