Chelsea v Norwich player ratings
Chelsea scraped into the fourth round of the FA Cup thanks to a penalty shootout success against Norwich after a controversial 1-1 draw. Here’s how we rated each Blues player at Stamford Bridge.
Willy Caballero: 7
A rash charge from his goal in the first half could easily have led to a Norwich goal but he made one vital interception and a world-class save after the break, as well as the match-winning stop in the shootout.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 7
Azpilicueta so nearly opened the scoring when he just failed to get a touch at the far post following a corner and was his normal steady self, in both areas.
David Luiz: 7
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The Brazilian’s body language did not suggest he was entirely happy to be part of the second string, but he was increasingly influential bringing the ball out of defence.
Ethan Ampadu: 7
Displayed remarkable composure and confidence for a 17-year-old. He defended impressively and used the ball intelligently.
Kenedy: 7
Chelsea’s left wing-back got forward well throughout and had several telling moments, notably for his fine cross for Michy Batshuayi’s goal.
Danny Drinkwater: 6
He was desperately unlucky not to score with a fine 20-yard effort that hit the bar and was just off target with a second-half strike, but was too often ponderous in possession which slowed up play, and reluctant to go forward.
Tiemoue Bakayoko: 6
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The Frenchman once again showed glimpses of his pace and power, but needs to play with far greater conviction and dominate matches. He clearly has the ability to do so but appears to lack the necessary drive.
Davide Zappacosta: 7
Provided a regular outlet on the right flank and was smart in possession and always willing to take on his man. Could easily have laid on a goal or two and completed his defensive duties well, although he possibly could have been quicker to close down for the equaliser.
Pedro: 6
Lively and fully involved but a ridiculous dive earned a deserved booking which proved costly after his unfortunate second caution.
Willian: 8
Chelsea’s standout player, Willian was a persistent threat running at the Norwich defence and could easily have ended with a hat-trick. His booking for simulation was ludicrous, even more so when VAR technology failed to rectify the error.
Michy Batshuayi: 5
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Batshuayi’s commitment was clear and he took his goal well, but it did little to disguise a poor performance where his touch was second rate and his hold-up play equally unreliable.
Andreas Christensen: 7
Had a typically imposing game after coming on late in normal time.
Alvaro Morata: 5
Narrowly off target with a header from Drinkwater’s cross, but then wasted three glorious chances before getting sent off for two yellow cards in the space of 10 seconds.
N’Golo Kante: 8
Brought the pace and energy that had been so desperately lacking, ensuring Chelsea dominated possession and territory.
Eden Hazard: 7
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Sharp and dangerous after coming on in extra time, and although unable to tee up a goal the Belgian scored the winning penalty.
