Boss thrilled after Blues win without Terry

Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo hailed defenders Gary Cahill and David Luiz following the 2-0 victory over Newcastle.

The duo formed an excellent centre-back partnership in the absence of John Terry, who missed the game with a neck injury.

Di Matteo had warned of the threat posed by Newcastle’s attacking players and was delighted to see his team defend so well without their inspiration captain.

“That was important today,” the Italian said.

“I thought we controlled their threat very well. We didn’t concede much to them because if you give space and time to Ba, Cisse, Ben Arfa or Cabaye they can hurt you.”

Eden Hazard and Fernando Torres scored Chelsea’s goals and were both outstanding, particularly in the first half.

But Di Matteo said: “It’s not just them two. They have a good link-up with Juan Mata and the other midfield players.

“You focus on the goalscorers but, thanks to the team, he [Hazard] has been able to slide in and play very comfortably with the others.”

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