Pedro Neto and Marc Cucurella make the same point about ‘tough moments’ after Chelsea’s 2-1 win against West Ham

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Pedro Neto and Marc Cucurella have both been speaking following Chelsea’s 2-1 win against West Ham United.

Had it not been for Pedro Neto‘s introduction, Chelsea would have probably lost their London derby.

The winger came on early in the second half and managed to make an impact, scoring the Blues’ equaliser.

Enzo Maresca was praised by Chelsea supporters for making such early changes in Monday night’s victory, which has seen the team move back into fourth.

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Pedro Neto and Marc Cucurella claim West Ham win was tough and crucial

With Chelsea losing 3-1 to Manchester City last time out and dropping out of the Champions League places, the London derby against West Ham was a big match for the club.

Goalscorer Neto and Cucurella have said as much, describing the win as “very important”.

Speaking on Sky Sports after the game, Cucurella said: “Yeah this win is very important in front of our fans. We came through tough moments and today we showed character.”

Neto then added: “It was really important after the run that we had. I think this shows the mentality of the team. We are here to perform and do our best and this victory was really important coming from behind.”

Ahead of the match, Neto admitted that he could do much better in a Chelsea shirt. The Portuguese joined the Blues in a £54m deal last summer, but his strike against West Ham was only his second in the Premier League this season.

Pedro Neto’s numbers against West Ham

Neto really tried to get involved in the game after coming onto the pitch. According to Sofascore, the 24-year-old had 28 touches and completed one of the three crosses that he attempted.

Neto had one shot on target, which led to his goal, while two of his other efforts were blocked.

All in all, you would have to say that the Portugal international did have an impact on the game and probably deserves to start Chelsea’s FA Cup tie against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday.

Chelsea then play Brighton again in the Premier League afterwards, a fixture Maresca‘s men need to win. It is becoming a real battle now for the fourth Champions League spot. As well as City, Chelsea also have to worry about Newcastle United, who are just two points behind them.