Plymouth manager hails ‘top-class’ 27-year-old Chelsea player after facing him today

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Plymouth manager Steven Schumacher described Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga as a “top-class” player after Saturday’s FA Cup tie.

Chelsea ended up beating a spirited Plymouth side 2-1 after extra time this afternoon.

Cesar Azpilicueta’s flicked goal cancelled out a shock opener from Macaulay Gillesphey for underdogs Plymouth.

The Blues ended up with a remarkable 41 shots during their 120 minutes of action. Eventually, Marcos Alonso scored in extra time to secure progress in another cup competition.

Plymouth’s Ryan Hardie missed a penalty in the 118th minute to mean his side missed out on spot-kicks, though.

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa, 27, saved low to his left to show why he’s earning the reputation as a penalty specialist.

Schumacher applauded the opposition’s goalkeeper in his post-match interview:

“Ryan Hardie is a good penalty taker and takes them well. So I had confidence in him. It wasn’t a great strike and it’s a great save. Kepa is a top-class goalkeeper at saving penalties,” Schumacher said.

Chelsea in luxury position

Kepa’s form whenever called upon during the last 12 months has been excellent.

The Spanish shot-stopper has been brilliant stepping in during the last month as the number one goalkeeper while teammate Edouard Mendy has been competing with Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Chelea are in a luxury position where they’ve got two top quality goalkeepers they can trust.

Of course, Kepa’s £71million price tag will continue to haunt him and be spoken about by others.

However, the 27-year-old is doing everything right he can when he plays and there is no longer an uncertainty when he’s in net.

He commanded his box well against Plymouth, as well as showing composure and class with the ball at his feet.

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