There were mixed feelings amongst the Chelsea faithful as they left Stamford Bridge with just a point in their 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.
On one hand, Reece James’ terrific free-kick goal which saved them a point, however many were left questioning how they got themselves in the position where they were minutes away from losing again.
The Blues are now five Premier League games without a win, and are dangerously close to dropping out of the top four.
Enzo Maresca has been forced to make some tough decisions when it comes to his starting side, and one of those has come in the right-wing position.
Noni Madueke cements Chelsea starting spot over Pedro Neto
Last night, the boss elected to start Noni Madueke there, instead of Pedro Neto who featured against Morecambe in the FA Cup.
Neto has previously been described as ‘incredible’ by former manager Gary O’Neil, and has shown glimpses of that since his summer move to West London.
Maresca has given Madueke chance after chance in the first team squad after dropping him from the squad in the past due to disciplinary issues.
The boss has remained full of praise for his player throughout this time, although has called for more consistency from one of their breakout performers of the campaign so far.
However, he played like he had a point to prove last night, with him causing Chelsea transfer target Milos Kerkez a number of issues.
He frequently got himself into promising crossing positions, and on another day will have helped himself to either a goal or assist.
Noni Madueke stats in Chelsea vs Bournemouth
The stats prove that the England international was a constant threat on the right before he was replaced nine minutes before the end.
| Noni Madueke vs Bournemouth | Total |
| Chances Created | 2 |
| Shots | 3 |
| Duels won | 3 |
| Recoveries | 3 |
Madueke’s link-up with Cole Palmer is amongst the best duos in the Premier League, and that was on display again particularly in the first half last night.
Neto and Madueke have been duelling for their place in the starting side throughout this season.
However, the latter’s performance last night should see the manager stick with him when they are next in Premier League action against Wolves.
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