Pat Nevin was full of praise for Chelsea defender Thiago Silva’s ‘off-the-scale’ performance in the decisive 2-1 win over Leicester City on Tuesday.
The scoreline could have been much more comfortable for the Blues, but they certainly did not mind having to work for the three points.
They now have climbed to third and above Leicester in the Premier League table. Their top-four fate is now completely in their hands.
It was a deserved win with plenty of outstanding performers in the team.
Rudiger, in particular, was quite busy. He made more tackles (three) and interceptions (three) in that game.
Blues legend Nevin, however, was also impressed by Silva’s calm display in the middle of the back three.
“Man of the match, you’re right, Rudiger,” Nevin told Chelsea’s post-match Matchday Live programme.
“But come on, Thiago Silva — what a Rolls-Royce that man is. He’s a joke.
“He’s so brilliant. Off the scale.”
Chronicle view
Leicester was rather fortunate to score following an error by Mateo Kovacic, but as often the case since Tuchel’s arrival, Chelsea’s strong defence win them games.
Despite Rudiger and Jorginho’s goals, it was pretty obvious that Chelsea still have issues up front.
They had 15 shot attempts inside the box, which suggests they did not have a problem in creating chances, but was not clinical enough.