Chelsea enjoyed a thumping 4-0 win against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge. Here’s how we rated the players in the comprehensive victory over Jose Mourinho’s side.
Pulled off a decent save in each half but made his best of the lot from Zlatan Ibrahimovic late on, reacting sharply to keep out the Swede’s close-range shot. The keeper also showed his increasing confidence in dealing with the ball at his feet.
He was once again faultless, playing a vital part as the Blues kept a third successive clean sheet since switching to three at the back. He made a couple of crucial first-half blocks and used his pace with great effect.
The England centre-back smashed in his goal with typical composure, capping one of his best performances of the season. Read the game well, was positionally sound and used the ball sensibly.
The defender could easily have seen red for a studs-up challenge, but was probably saved because he tried to pull out as the ball bounced higher than he first anticipated. Defensively solid, he played without risk, proving he can focus on his main role when needs must.
Chelsea’s new right wing-back continues to shine, although this time he stood out more for his defensive work than his attacking play. He won some important headers, was not flustered going back towards his own goal, and still showed his ability to support in attack.
Played with great energy and desire throughout, closing down, driving forward and playing a smart pass for Eden Hazard’s goal.
He has already become indispensable and, after demonstrating why once again with another dominant display, he scored his first Chelsea goal. The Frenchman did not waste possession, never looked troubled and made United’s midfield look ordinary.
He was shown up for a lack of pace on a couple of occasions, principally by Antonio Valencia, but it did not prove costly. His ability on the ball and willingness to surge upfield whenever possible is a huge asset when attacking and outweighed any athletic failings.
Wreaked havoc from the moment his cool finish earned a lead inside a minute, exposing Daley Blind’s lack of pace and scaring the life out of the Dutch defender throughout. He could have done better with one or two promising situations but was always effective, lively and threatening.
Chelsea’s most outstanding player along with Pedro, the Belgian played at his own pace, making the most of a slight relaxation of his defensive duties to take control of the attacking play. His supremely well-taken fourth goal of the season as good as wrapped up the win.
Chelsea’s top scorer was bustling and busy again, without needing to be at his very best. He made intelligent runs off the ball but also made a couple of odd decisions when he had possession in dangerous areas. Did a fine job in unsettling the United defence.
Was once again neat and tidy after coming on for the final 20 minutes.
This post was last modified on 24/10/2016