Chelsea secured an important victory at home to Everton on Saturday afternoon, and Noni Madueke’s starting position was a big topic for discussion with the fanbase.
The Blues recorded a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge against Everton to boost their hopes of Champions League qualification.
Nicolas Jackson ended a recent goal drought with a superb first-half goal that he drilled low into the bottom corner.
As a result, Enzo Maresca’s side temporarily jump up to fourth in the Premier League table because they played in the lunchtime kick-off. They now have four top-flight games left remaining to stay in the top five positions.
- Chelsea vs Liverpool (4 May)
- Newcastle United vs Chelsea (11 May)
- Chelsea vs Manchester United (16 May)
- Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea (25 May)
The Chelsea player ratings versus Everton highlighted some very strong individual displays as the Champions League race hots up.
- READ MORE: UEFA development could impact Chelsea as three new rules discussed for Champions League next season
Chelsea fans really enjoyed Noni Madueke on the left against Everton
Noni Madueke, who nearly always plays on the right wing, was a surprise inclusion in the Chelsea team against Everton on the opposite flank.
The 23-year-old left-footer started and played on the left wing for his entire duration on the pitch. He was quite impressive, too.
Chelsea supporters on social media agreed that Madueke delivered a really strong performance in his different role versus Everton.
One fan said: “Madueke on the left wing, his best game so far this year.
“I like Madueke on the left. Dangerous crosses,” another wrote.
One supporter claimed: “Really enjoyed Noni Madueke on the left. Held his width better, and was very effective at taking on defenders and getting to the byline.”
“Much better Madueke. He’s been good at left wing,” another posted.
Finally, one fan commented: “Madueke on the left is a revelation.”
Now that Madueke has proven he can operate on the left flank as well, it should give him a greater chance of starting most weeks.
The England international will be bitterly disappointed he didn’t get on the scoresheet before coming off late in the second half. However, Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made two outstanding saves from right-footed attempts on goal from Madueke.
| Minutes played | Goals | Assists | Shots on target | Touches in opposition box | Accurate passes | Successful dribbles | Match rating |
| 78 | 0 | 0 | 4/4 (100%) | 7 | 20/25 (80%) | 2/4 (50%) | 7.6 |
Noni Madueke is happy staying at Chelsea despite transfer interest from numerous clubs ahead of the summer.
The skilful winger is coming up to two and a half seasons with the Blues, where he’s proven he’s got the potential to be a key player.
Chelsea wingers coming into form
At the business end of the season, Chelsea are starting to see many of their wide players flourish.
Madueke must take confidence from his overall performance this weekend. Meanwhile, Pedro Neto was equally eye-catching with his dynamic contribution from the right wing.
Even though Jadon Sancho is making important contributions when he features right now, he was left out of the starting line-up against Everton.
If the Blues are to secure Champions League qualification plus win the Conference League, it’s going to take a squad effort.
Back in February, Paul Merson urged Chelsea to stick with the same two wingers, but Maresca does have the squad depth to rotate in those areas of the pitch.
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