Chelsea ended the month of January with a surprising defeat, with Bournemouth running out 3-0 winners at Stamford Bridge last night. Callum Wilson, Junior Stanislas and former Blue Nathan Ake were all on the scoresheet as Eddie Howe’s side earned a very credible victory at the hands of the Champions. The Blues never looked likely to spark a comeback, and it was Bournemouth who come away with all three points. Here’s how the Chelsea players rated last night:
Thibaut Courtois – 5
The Belgian returned to the starting line-up after returning from injury. Would be disappointed to have conceded three on his return, being unable to do much about any of them.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 5
Not the best performance from Azpilicueta. His crosses failed to find anyone, and he played Wilson onside for his goal.
Andreas Christensen – 6
Hobbled off injured after less than half an hour. Chelsea missed him after he went off.
Gary Cahill – 5
All over the place in the second half, which saw Cahill struggle in the centre of a back three.
Davide Zappacosta – 6
A bright first half from the Italian, who delivered a number of quality crosses into the box. Would’ve been disappointed to have been taken off.
N’Golo Kante – 6
Attempted to change the tempo by making a number of forward runs. Only problem is that he lacks the urgency to shoot.
Tiemoue Bakayoko – 5
Gave the ball away too often and looked out of place. Very poor from the Frenchman.
Marcos Alonso – 5
Went close with a couple of free kicks, but ultimately didn’t do enough to make an impact on the game.
Ross Barkley – 5
Made his first Chelsea start, but still looked rusty and off the pace.
Eden Hazard – 7
Chelsea’s main creative outlet once again. Gave the Bournemouth defence a lot to think about, but didn’t test Asmir Begovic’s goal.
Pedro – 5
Didn’t really impact the game in the way he would’ve liked.
Substitutes
Antonio Rudiger – 5
Poor from the German, who should’ve done better in defensive situations.
Cesc Fabregas – 5
Brought on to change the game, but failed to do so.
Callum Hudson-Odoi – 7
Made his Premier League debut, and looked very calm and composed. Full of running and made a few attempts on goal.