If Antonio Conte guides Chelsea to the Premier League title this season, it would be an incredible achievement in more ways than one.

To come in and lead a group of mentally wounded players to silverware in his first year in charge would be a remarkable effort, especially when one considers most members of the current squad finished tenth last term.

Following the Blues’ abysmal 2015-16 campaign, Conte forewent the expectation he would invest significantly in new signings to tailor the team to his exact liking.

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In fact, that highlights arguably the most impressive mark of his tenure so far – an ability to get the best out of a pre-existing squad while using a system very few of his players had experience playing in.

And most of those the Italian did bring in – N’Golo Kante, David Luiz, Michy Batshuayi and Marcos Alonso – have been among the finest and most consistent performers of the season.

The last of those four individuals – a relatively unknown defender signed from Fiorentina for more than many thought he was worth – stands out as a particularly relevant example of how Conte has transformed Chelsea.

While the number of poor performances Alonso has produced this season could be counted on one hand, his memorable moments of brilliance are equally rare.

But that is exactly what he produced during a 3-1 win over Bournemouth on Sunday – a perfect free-kick curled into the corner from 20 yards out.

The 68th-minute strike was his fifth goal of the season and a brilliant way to shut up his teammates who had been teasing him about hitting the woodwork with his recent attempts.

“Yeah, I hit the post twice already [in previous matches]," Alonso said, as per Goal.

"When I took the ball, everyone was saying, ‘Please, one inch lower…’ 

"I was very happy because it was the goal which gave us the peace to relax and make the game more comfortable. So happy for that and hopefully more to come."

Alonso has scored more goals than any Premier League defender since November, potentially throwing his name into the mix for the Chelsea Player of the Season award.

However, when asked for his pick for the accolade, the Spaniard admitted a host of his colleagues would be deserving winners.

"Diego [Costa], Eden [Hazard], they are having great seasons, scoring so many goals, tough choice that. I’m very happy for that. Everyone tries to give 100 per cent for the team. If you can help with goals or assists then it’s even more important.”