Antonio Conte’s Chelsea secured an impressive ninth consecutive league win yesterday, returning to the top of the Premier League following this slender victory over West Brom.

Despite a poor performance against a tough Baggies side, it took a superb second-half strike from Diego Costa to seal the victory.

However, despite being reminded about Arsenal’s top-flight record of 14 in a row, between February and August 2002, the Italian played it all down.

“I am interested in winning every game and not in records,” said Conte. “We have only played 15 games, so we must continue.

“I like to see my team fight like West Brom did. It wasn’t easy. They showed great character and motivation.”

West Brom could have arguably been in the lead as the teams went in for the interval.

Midfielder Chris Brunt nearly put his side 1-0 up with a curling shot, while Salomon Rondon also came close in a low-key opening 45 minutes. It didn’t get much better for Tony Pulis’s men, however, as they faded after the break.

“We played well and the disappointing thing is that we’ve players who are better on the ball than they showed today,” said the West Brom boss.

“We were careless in possession.”

Chelsea’s best chances were a deflected shot from N’golo Kante and a dipping free-kick from David Luiz.

However, the home side were looking decidedly off-colour as they struggled to find their way past a rugged West Brom backline.

The home side fared little better after the break, with Conte bringing on Willian and Cesc Fabregas to offer some much needed creativity.

On 76 minutes, however, Costa found the breakthrough for his side.

Fabregas played a pass over West Brom’s defenders which was pursued by his teammate.

Defender Gareth McAuley hesitated in his clearance, leaving Costa to dispossess him.

The Spaniard then raced away with the ball before firing a fine curling shot high and beyond the dive of goalkeeper Ben Foster.

Conte added: “I am really pleased for him [Costa]. He is showing great commitment for the team and I am very pleased for him.”

Chelsea visit Sunderland and Crystal Palace in the coming days as they prepare themselves for the busy festive period.

Meanwhile, West Brom are home to Swansea City and Manchester United.