Chelsea's change of formation brought a change of fortunes. Antonio Conte delayed moving to the back three that so many expected him to introduce, but it has paid off wonderfully with the Blues winning seven consecutive Premier League matches before this weekend's action and going six straight games without conceding a league goal. Seldom are we treated to such tactical mastery in the Premier League, but Conte – along with a few others – is changing that.

One of the greatest beneficiaries of Chelsea’s change has been Victor Moses. The Nigerian has been a perennial loanee, struggling for regular minutes at other clubs over the last few seasons. His career has taken its sharpest upward turn to date, however, as his role as Chelsea’s right wing-back has proven to be one of the cornerstones of their recent successes.

Moses’ rejuvenation has been joyous to watch. From a player whose future at the top of the game seemed to be in doubt, he is as integral to the table-topping side as anyone. The role of a wing-back is challenging, however, requiring significant contributions in every phase of play, and an injury to the 25-year-old could accordingly derail Chelsea's season.

Currently, its hard to see how they’ll cover for Moses. Maybe they should consider one of these FIVE signings in January.

Michail Antonio

Michail Antonio would be perfect for Chelsea. Having played as a right-back, striker and winger last season, West Ham’s right-sided star has been mainly used as a right wing-back for the Hammers this term, contributing goals on a regular basis.

With the cover of Cesar Azpilicueta at right-sided centre-back, Chelsea’s wing-back on that flank must contribute offensively, to widen the pitch and create space for players inside. The goals of Antonio would be a welcome bonus, too.

Ignazio Abate

 

As Chelsea seem likely to be linked to virtually every Serie A player while Conte is at the helm, it is surely only a matter of time until Abate’s move to Stamford Bridge is mooted. Having played regularly in an improved Milan side, Abate has managed to produce a level of performance this season that many expected of him years ago.

Although not as offensively adept as Moses, Abate would provide an option down the right-side. His acceleration helps to cover up for the odd defensive mistake, while the added protection of a central defender down his flank would perfectly suit his play.

Mariano

At 30 years old, Mariano is an experienced veteran alternative for Chelsea. Only a short-term signing of course, Sevilla’s Brazilian right-sided utility man has found a new lease of life this season.

Perhaps not the greatest value that there will be in the winter’s transfer market, Mariano would be a signing on form, a signing to really make sure that there is necessary cover for this season, rather than planning long into the future.

Ricardo Pereira

In Nice’s exceptional start to the Ligue 1 season, Ricardo Pereira has been integral. Playing as both an orthodox right-back and a wing-back, the 23-year-old Portuguese star has shown all the qualities that Chelsea will be looking for in any new signing.

A good dribbler, strong tackler and able to create like few other defensive players can, Pereira must be considered by Chelsea either in January or next summer.

Seamus Coleman

Coleman was the flavour of 2014, but injuries and a dip in performance levels have seen him slip off of the radar somewhat. Part of that is down to Everton’s collective struggles, of course.

Still a competent defender, Coleman has the attacking instincts to overlap and cause problems in the final third that many others would lack. While Ronald Koeman would be reluctant to let him go, Coleman seems well suited to a wing-back role and could provide excellent depth at Chelsea.