Conte’s switch behind Chelsea’s form, says Courtois

The success of Chelsea’s new 3-4-3 system is clear to see on the pitch, and Thibaut Courtois knows firsthand just how effective it can be.

The Blues secured a third straight Premier League win, following successes against Leicester City and Hull, by thrashing former manager Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United 4-0 on Sunday.

An early goal set the tone for Antonio Conte’s Chelsea, who produced their best result of the season so far having switched to three at the back following a humbling at Arsenal last month.

And Courtois is certain the new formation is what is paying dividends.

“We have more defensive security,” he said. “Against Hull and Leicester I didn’t have to make many saves but against United I did, we’ve been defending very well.

“At the Euros I played for Belgium against Italy and Wales, who both used this system, and they were very difficult games.”

Sunday’s clash with United was Mourinho’s first return to Stamford Bridge, where he won three titles in two stints, since his sacking last season.

But Courtois was adamant there was no bad blood between the players and their old gaffer, or any added spice to the game.

“I don’t think about revenge towards him because we won the league under him,” said the 24-year-old.

“Last season wasn’t down to him, none of the players were at our level that we were when we were champions and he paid for it directly.

“We are one point from the top of the table, it’s good but we have to keep on working. We play West Ham on Wednesday (in the EFL Cup) and then we have another difficult away game at Southampton.”