Norwich v Chelsea player ratings

Juan Mata’s winner continued Chelsea’s encouraging recent run. Here’s how we rated the players in their 1-0 victory at Norwich.

Petr Cech: 6
Didn’t have a shot to save and would have kept out Norwich’s only noteworthy chance – an injury-time Sebastien Bassong header that went over the bar. Could have stayed at home and watched James Bond films.

Cesar Azpilicueta: 7
Growing in confidence and is adjusting well to the English game. Still looks like his best is yet to come but pretty impressive and got forward well to put in a couple of decent crosses.

Ashley Cole: 8
Solid and totally dependable and always in control. His experience is vital. As with Frank Lampard, it would be a ludicrous call not to offer him a new deal.

Gary Cahill: 8
Commanding performance. Kept Grant Holt very quiet, never looked flustered and also used the ball intelligently. Made a couple of crucial blocks.

Branislav Ivanovic: 8
Part of a near faultless defensive effort. Strong, brave and dominant and his presence seems to breed confidence.

John Mikel Obi: 7
Quiet and efficient. Rarely gave the ball away and showed good strength, but at times still needs to quicken the pace to give his forwards more space.

David Luiz 8
Took time to settle, but with his energy and all-round ability, slotting into a more advanced midfield position was not a problem. Relentless running wore Norwich down. Won possession in crucial areas going forward and set up a couple of chances. Will need to work on his shooting in open play though, as he sent two efforts hopelessly wide.

Oscar: 7
Involved in the goal and continues to prove that class, workrate and battling qualities are all an equal part of his game.

Juan Mata: 8
Another stunning goal – a simply brilliant strike. Oozes class and never fails to deliver. Must be a strong contender for PFA player of the year already.

Victor Moses: 7
Always prepared to run with the ball and relieves pressure. But also has an end product, good awareness and is prepared to do the ugly things too.

Fernando Torres: 6
Not involved a great deal. But plenty of running and it finally looks as though he is at a stage where one quiet game will not knock his confidence.

Frank Lampard: 6
Rested after three games in a week and looked sharp when he came on for Mikel in the final 20 minutes. Tireless running almost set up a goal for Moses.

Eden Hazard: 6
Stretched the home defence with his blistering pace and had a late chance saved. Booked for a late foul that prevented a dangerous breakaway.

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