A year ago, Chelsea were imploding, a point off the relegation places, players being cussed by betrayal, and Jose Mourinho making public statements demeaning the team: The Blues were down and out. However, 365 days later, Chelsea are on a 10-game winning run in the Premier League, six points clear at top of the table, heading into Christmas as title contenders and favourites. A turn-around no one expected.

Manager Antonio Conte is the reason their revival and along with new recruits N’Golo Kante, David Luiz and Marcos Alonso, a 3-4-3 system after a heavy defeat by Arsenal in last September is the reason for their resurgence. Chelsea made it ten league victories in a row on Wednesday – and have conceded just two goals in 15 hours of football.

In their latest video, bringing in the Christmas spirit, Conte stars alongside a group of players in a serious mood, but ends with Eden Hazard and Co joking around. “Intensity, concentration. During the Christmas period the games are relentless,” Conte begins. “There is no let up, so be prepared. Christmas can make or break a season. Every game matters.”