Chelsea stars use rugby pads in bid to stop Arsenal’s dangerous corners

Chelsea have adopted an unusual training method ahead of their Premier League clash with Arsenal, using large rugby tackle shields to prepare for the Gunners’ set-piece threat. The Sun reports that Chelsea players were put through contact drills at Cobham, with Valentin Barco and Pep Chavarria among those involved.

The approach is designed to replicate the physical pressure Arsenal create from corners and other dead-ball situations. Arsenal scored 22 set-piece goals last season, making them one of the league’s biggest threats in that area. Chelsea have started the campaign with two wins and seven goals, but have conceded five times. Xabi Alonso will hope the unconventional preparation helps his side withstand Arsenal’s aerial assault.