Antonio Conte was always likely to use a back three formation at some point during his Chelsea stint, but it was not expected to become a realistic alternative this soon.

Two abysmal performances against Arsenal and Liverpool forced Conte's hand somewhat, as the defence suffered and the midfield did not have the balance required to compete at the top of the table.

The result of the switch to 3-4-3 was clear. Chelsea were more fluid in possession, had better structure defensively and looked a new side with a few changes in personnel.

Although availability and opponent will dictate the system that Conte uses, the performance against Hull made the Italian's comments seem a little shallow when he claimed that this is by no means permanent.

Of course there will occasionally be a requirement to play a back four, especially if John Terry is to be included, but the success of 3-4-3 should make it undoubted first choice and three players should see a fair few more minutes as a result...

Victor Moses

Victor Moses has had a meandering career to date. After a decent, if unspectacular, first season at Chelsea he has been loaned around England without making a meaningful contribution.

The assumption was that Cesar Azpilicueta would fill in at right wing-back in this system, but Conte's decision to field Moses in that role was strongly rewarded. The Nigerian was excellent offensively and secure enough defensively against Hull, his direct running providing a threat down the wing throughout.

His talent has sparkled briefly throughout his career and Conte's comments after the game at the KC Stadium suggest Moses could be a key member of the squad for the rest of this season.

Marcos Alonso

Marcos Alonso

Having appeared from the bench against Arsenal, Marcos Alonso was awarded a starting spot against Hull and took the opportunity to impress. Like Moses, Alonso is most likely to feature in a 3-4-3 as a wing-back.

A well-rounded footballer, the former Fiorentina man was not the marquee full-back that Chelsea were linked with, but he is a signing that fits with what Conte desires.

Chelsea would be wise to use Alonso ahead of Branislav Ivanovic, as shown by their respective recent performances. The change in shape almost guarantees Alonso's inclusion in the XI, with no other recognised first teamer either accustomed or suitable to play as the left wing-back.

Eden Hazard

It is not like Eden Hazard would have been dropped if the formation hadn't been changed, but he will be one of the key beneficiaries. Although often in a free role, Hazard and Willian are both given additional leeway from the team structure in the front three.

Able to leave his nominal role on the flank in the knowledge that Alonso will hold the width, having a natural left-footer on his side of the field makes Hazard's job considerably easier. Making the pitch wider and stretching the game gives Hazard additional space to hurt the opposition, even when he is being closely marked.

For several seasons the Blues have suffered from a lack of width, which has made it easier to stifle their talented creative players in the final third.