Valencia v Chelsea player ratings

Chelsea rode their luck at times as they earned a point against Valencia, meaning qualification for the Champions League knockout stages remains in their hands. Here’s how we rated each Blues player in the 2-2 draw.

Kepa Arrizabalaga: 6

He made a wonderful penalty save but was too easily deceived by both goals.The first one saw Kepa confused by the poor connection and the equaliser may have looped over him even if he thought it was going over.

Reece James: 8

A performance of maturity and class. James is making it impossible not to select him. He has poise, ability on the ball, is strong, pacy and confident and should be a fixture in this side for years to come.

Andreas Christensen: 7

Back in the side after injury, the Dane did not disappoint making numerous vital interceptions and defending steadily throughout.

Kurt Zouma: 8

The towering Frenchman was commanding and an imposing presence taking responsibility and looking calm and in control despite Valancia’s gung-ho approach.

Cesar Azpilicueta: 7

Solid defensively and capable without being box-office in attack. Azpilicueta somehow seems more suited to playing at left-back.

Jorginho: 7

Outshone by Kovacic, but impressive none the less. He invariably selects the right option in possession and is no longer afraid to play a killer pass given the chance.

N’Golo Kante: 7

Valencia’s almost reckless approach meant he was denied space and time but Kante was typically all-action.

Mateo Kovacic: 8

Kovacic’s first goal after a 122-game drought will catch all the headlines but he wasted a much easier chance to make it 2-0 moments later. Goals and near misses aside, the Croatian was the standout midfielder in Chelsea shirt, linking play, and getting forward. The only concern is being part of a side that seemed too attacking in the closing stages.

Christian Pulisic: 8

The American’s ability to drift into the box paid dividends, with his fifth goal in eight away appearances giving Chelsea a great chance of making the knockout stages. He was bright and lively throughout and deserved his first Champions League goal.

Willian: 6

Another standard Willian display. He missed a chance almost too good to be true very early on but then caused no end of concern to the home defence with an energetic performance that was let down by his inability to pick or execute the right final pass.

Tammy Abraham: 7

He got himself in some great positions before his worrying injury forced him off at the break, but did not have much fortune in front of goal. The England striker is beginning to play with a swagger that shows his belief.

Michy Batshuayi: 6

The Belgian did well with limited opportunities, making some intelligent runs and putting himself about after replacing Abraham at the break.

Mason Mount: 6

England midfielder Mount brought good energy in his ten minutes on the pitch.

Emerson: 6

Played his part in ensuring the point.