A group of players largely used in reserve shone on rare starts against Spurs, much to the delight of their manager
Antonio Conte believes he showed trust in his squad as Chelsea stayed on course for the double with a pulsating 4-2 FA Cup semi-final win over Tottenham at Wembley.
Brazil winger Willian, selected from the start as star man Eden Hazard was rested on the bench, netted a trademark free-kick in the fifth minute and restored Chelsea's lead from the penalty spot after Harry Kane headed Spurs level.
Dele Alli netted a second equaliser after the break and a Chelsea defence featuring Nathan Ake – making his first appearance against top-flight opposition after returning from a loan spell at Bournemouth in January – were forced to stand firm under sustained pressure.