Pat Nevin was left blown away by the performance of Raheem Sterling in Chelsea’s 1-0 win against Everton in their Premier League opener.
Sterling, 27, made his competitive debut for the Blues during Saturday’s victory at Goodison Park.
The big summer signing lined up in attack and looked the most dangerous forward threat for Thomas Tuchel’s side.
His arrival from Manchester City this summer gives Chelsea something they’ve missed sometimes in recent seasons, which is a player that glides past opponents with his dribbling and quick change of direction.
Nevin blown away by Sterling
Nevin singled out Chelsea’s debutant as a massive positive from the weekend’s result.
Sterling managed to slot straight into the Blues line-up effortlessly, so it’s a great sign he can be a really key player straight from the off.
The England international should definitely be one of the most nailed on players to start when Tuchel’s side host rivals Tottenham this weekend in their second league match of the season.
“Raheem was lively, intelligent, hardworking and as skilful as anyone on the field. Sometimes it takes a little while to fit into a new club, Raheem looked like he had been there for years,” Nevin wrote.
Best position
Chelsea’s front three of Sterling, Kai Havertz and Mason Mount against Everton was a very fluid one that interchanged during the contest.
Interestingly, Sterling spent a lot of time picking up central positions, highlighting his great movement and willingness to get involved. Glenn Hoddle admitted after the match he’s not too sure why Chelsea’s new signing spent so much time through the middle.
If Chelsea can sign a recognised No.9, Sterling may be best served coming in from the wing to find pockets of space. There’s no doubt he’s got the intelligence and attacking quality to be a key player in Tuchel’s formation.
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