A magnificent first-half performance set Chelsea on their way to a crushing 5-0 win over Everton that took them to the top of the Premier League table. Here’s how we rated the players in an incredibly one-sided meeting at Stamford Bridge.
May as well have had a hammock strung up between the posts. Made no saves but used the ball well when he did get to join in. Will probably never have an easier day at work.
Forceful in the tackle and assured on the ball, he looks ready-made to play in a back three. He kept things simple and played some excellent first-time passes – a surefire sign of his growing confidence.
Did everything he could possibly have done to further frustrate an Everton attack that barely had a sniff of the ball in the final third. The England centre-back was aggressive, composed and organised those around him with great calmness.
Is proving the many doubters wrong with increasingly mature performances, recognising when he can take a gamble to step out and try to win possession and when he needs to sit tight and play the percentages.
Once again he was excellent, isolating his defender, forcing the visitors into tactical changes and invariably picking the right moment when to keep possession and when to take on his man. Used his pace when needed in his defensive work.
He was back to his majestic best – particularly in the first half when he controlled the midfield, pressed at the right times and even outshone N’Golo Kante. Could easily have taken a couple of swipes at goal from 25 yards but was thoughtful and selfless with his passing in dangerous areas.
As steady and impressive as ever, but such was the Chelsea dominance that the French midfielder’s fine performance was just the standard in a sensational team victory.
His first Chelsea goal was not the most convincing of strikes but was a perfect reward for a fine attacking effort. He rarely had to defend and took up intelligent positions in advanced areas, hugging the touchline to stretch play and free up space for his team-mates.
The Spaniard was outstanding in the middle third early on, haranguing the Everton midfield and instigating countless attacks. But his pace and attacking intent outshone even that as Chelsea built a lead. His first-time flick for Eden Hazard’s second goal was stunning.
An awesome display by the Belgian, who took his Premier League tally to seven for the season courtesy of a sublime strike for his opener and an equally superb finish for the second. He was inventive, strong in possession, found space at will and was at his very best throughout.
Took a nasty late studs-up challenge on his ankle from Seamus Coleman early on but kept his cool to torment the away defence with an all-action display. He scored his ninth Premier League goal of the season, showed his trademark movement, dribbling from deep and ability to fashion chances for himself and those around him.
The Brazilian’s highlight during his 20-minute run-out was a stupendous first-time pass to set Diego Costa through on goal, but the game was well and truly won when he came on and it was tricky to make an impression in the closing stages despite his best efforts.
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i love chelsea