Antonio Conte has urged Chelsea not to take Sunderland lightly when the Blues travel to the Stadium of Light.
Top of the table following a scintillating run of form, Chelsea head to Wearside searching for a tenth consecutive Premier League win after conquering all since September.
Sunderland, meanwhile, are aiming to bounce back from a disappointing defeat at Swasea City and return to the form which saw them pick up three wins from four prior to their Liberty Stadium defeat.
And speaking ahead of Wednesday’s clash at the Stadium of Light, Conte challenged his side to replicate their recent form during the festive period.
"We all know that it's not easy to continue to win, but we are working to try and do this.
"But I know this league, and this league is very tough.”
He continued: “It's a great challenge for us and our mentality. It's important to give continuity.
“We know Sunderland are bottom, but if you look at the last five games they are fifth in the form table, for this reason we have to take great attention, to be focused and concentrated throughout.
"This is the first of five games in 22 days, I think we are ready to face that challenge.
"We are working very hard to face this Christmas period, so now it is important to start this period in the right way.”