After consecutive league defeats to Bournemouth and Watford, Chelsea restored balance and returned to winning ways with an emphatic victory over West Brom last night. Eden Hazard grabbed a brace, and Victor Moses scored one as Antonio Conte’s side moved back into the top four of the Premier League. A great win for the Blues, here’s how the Chelsea players rated:
Thibaut Courtois – 6
Didn’t have much to do, as the away side did not create many chances. Saved well from a Craig Dawson header, which was inevitably ruled out for offside.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 7
Made his 250th appearance in a Chelsea shirt, and marked it with a good performance. Solid defensively and always looking for a cross.
Andreas Christensen – 8
Strong and assured when in possession. Dealt with the threat of Rondon very well, although was outmuscled on an occasion. Great from the Dane.
Antonio Rudiger – 7
Good defensive performance from the German. Made some great runs forward as the West Brom defence parted.
Victor Moses – 7
Was lucky not to gift the opening goal away with a dodgy header back. Recovered well in the second half, and finished well for Chelsea’s second.
Cesc Fabregas – 6
A quiet night from the Spaniard. Usually dictates the midfield, but never really got going during the game. Lucky for him, his teammates were great.
N’Golo Kante – 7
Typical game for Kante. Always running and winning possession back for Chelsea. Didn’t have to do much chasing as the Blues held most of the ball, but did well when needed.
Davide Zappacosta – 6
Started on the left side in the absence of Marcos Alonso. Got forward well, but his final ball was lacking.
Pedro – 8
Full of running and energy, Pedro’s performance deserved a goal. Worked hard and was always willing to track back. Great from the Spaniard.
Olivier Giroud – 8
Provided a great assist for Hazard’s first goal, and was the target man Chelsea so much needed. Should’ve had a goal himself, and his passing needs to improve.
Eden Hazard – 9
Brilliant from the Belgian once again. He got the ball rolling last night with a great finish after Giroud’s pass. His second was even better, shooting early to leave Ben Foster standing.
Substitutes
Alvaro Morata – 7
A decent performance on the Spaniard’s return from injury. He linked up well with Hazard, and forced a good save from Foster with a long range effort.
Gary Cahill – 6
Came on for Christensen after the Dane looked to be struggling with injury. Didn’t have much to do.
Willian – N/A
Came on with around 10 minutes left, and couldn’t really impact the game.