Marcos Alonso’s first-half goal was enough to earn Chelsea victory over Southampton at Stamford Bridge. Here’s how we rated each Blues player in their eighth win in 10 Premier League matches.
Guilty of an early lapse when he misjudged a low cross from former Chelsea man Ryan Bertrand, the Blues keeper more than redeemed himself by twice denying Charlie Austin an equaliser after the former QPR striker had been put through on goal.
Embed from Getty Images
Seemed to switch off momentarily in the build up to Austin’s first big chance, but overall Azpilicueta was, as usual, solid and dependable at the back for Chelsea.
Another composed display at the heart of the Blues defence. Really looks the part.
Did the basics well and played his part in a solid defensive performance from the home side.
Embed from Getty Images
Worked hard on the flank and needed to because Southampton had some joy there, especially early on. Looks to have quickly recovered his sharpness following a recent injury lay-off.
Gave away the ball away early on and it almost led to a goal for the Saints. That lapse aside, the Frenchman was typically effective in midfield, where he helped his team control the game. Went close to scoring with a deflected effort in the first half.
Better from the summer signing, who has faced much criticism since his arrival. This time he was much more reliable on the ball and covered a tremendous amount of ground.
Embed from Getty Images
Superb stuff from Alonso, who scored the winner with a brilliant free-kick and would have netted a spectacular second goal but for keeper Fraser Forster pushing away the Spaniard’s right-footed volley. Alonso was outstanding on the left from start to finish.
An excellent performance. Hit the post in the first half after bursting in from the left and a dazzling run through the middle was another highlight.
Worked hard up front as he led the attack in the absence of an out-and-out striker until being replaced by Alvaro Morata. So often the stand-out player with his flair and creativity, this was a performance for the team. His movement was non-stop and he linked play well.
Lively from the off. Unlucky with a couple of attempts on goal and worked tirelessly off the ball as well.
Kept things ticking over nicely in midfield after being brought on in the second half.
Dangerous after coming on and was denied by a good save from Forster.
This post was last modified on 17/12/2017