Chelsea continued their incredible run by winning a 13th successive game. Here’s how we rated the players in the thrilling 4-2 victory over Stoke at Stamford Bridge.
The Belgian had no chance with either of the goals and apart from that had almost nothing to do. Stoke only had two shots on target. His kicking and handling was solid.
His reading of the game and ability to recognise when to burst forward continues to stand out as much as his faultless defensive work. He made one sensational clearance to preserve the lead at 3-2 up.
He got away with a woeful crossfield pass in the first half but was sensible and strong and looked the most at ease of all the Blues defenders when dealing with the giant figure of Peter Crouch.
A great run and header put Chelsea ahead and the captain led from the front, never shirking the challenge against Crouch. He struggled more than his defensive team-mates, but that was all down to facing an aerial threat like no other in the Premier League.
He was typically tireless and industrious throughout and made numerous forays forward – particularly in the second half when he combined superbly with Willian. But needs to be reminded how to take a throw-in.
Laid on Cahill’s goal with a fine corner from the left, but was otherwise slightly off with his passing in the first half. The Spaniard began to control the game after the break but, with a yellow card hanging over him – and a lead to protect – he was replaced with just over 15 minutes remaining.
A shocking mis-kick led to Stoke’s second equaliser but that was just about the only mistake the Frenchman made. His energy and relentless running sometimes makes it easy to forget his quality on the ball and his exceptional decision-making.
He won some vital headers, defended solidly and was increasingly effective in the final third. Almost scored with a fine late run and fizzing strike.
The Brazilian struggled to make an impact in the first half but was exceptional after the interval, scoring two superb goals and causing no end of problems to a stretched Stoke defence.
Looked sharp and inventive, with his ability to create space in tight areas meaning the visiting defence never looked comfortable. Chelsea’s main creative player continues to maintain a level of consistency that is on a par – if not better than – the title-winning season under Jose Mourinho.
He capped a another outstanding performance with a late goal that was indicative of his all-action efforts. His hold-up play, touch and awareness around the box, and workrate was as impressive as ever and he fully deserved his goal.
His introduction immediately gave the Blues a more solid look in midfield, with his defensive nous bringing some much-needed calm to a chaotic match.
Brought on to shore things up in the final 10 minutes, he did well enough but Costa’s goal meant the Serbian’s defensive strengths were barely needed.
This post was last modified on 01/01/2017