Chelsea v Newcastle player ratings
Marcos Alonso’s goal gave Chelsea a fifth consecutive win. Here’s how we rated each Blues player in the 1-0 victory over Newcastle.
Kepa Arrizabalaga: 6
A quiet afternoon. Although Newcastle were very industrious and harassed the Blues in the first half, the keeper didn’t have any real saves of note.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 6
A steady showing from the Chelsea captain, and although not as effective linking up with Willian as normal, he was on hand to nullify any isolated threats.
Kurt Zouma: 7
Made a few timely interceptions as Newcastle pressed with intent early on. Good battle with Magpies’ DeAndre Yedlin.
Fikoyo Tomori: 7
Cautioned at the end of the first half as the game heated up and was sloppy on the ball at times. Otherwise very assured especially as Newcastle’s attacking threat waned in the second half.
Marcos Alonso: 7
Booked in the second minute for a reckless challenge. Ironically not one of the defender’s more assured displays – but a fine strike from distance to break Newcastle’s resistance on 73 minutes proved decisive.
Jorginho: 7
Kept the rhythm going for Chelsea with his usual reliable range of passing. Vital presence as the Blues needed patience to grab a goal.
Ross Barkley: 6
Frank Lampard’s decision to start with him didn’t pay off and after an ankle knock was replaced by Mateo Kovacic in the 41st minute.
Willian: 8
Headed just wide as Chelsea asserted themselves early on. Received some rough treatment from Ciaran Clark but was at the heart of every attack, causing problems for the visitors.
Callum Hudson-Odoi: 7
His third Premier League appearance at Stamford Bridge began brightly, causing problems on the left with his trickery and crossing. Always threatened on the left and occasionally on the right-hand side.
Mason Mount: 6
Lively in the early stages and drew a smart save from Newcastle keeper Martin Dubravka with a snap-shot. Failed to make the kind of impact in previous weeks thereafter. Replaced on 63 minutes by Christian Pulisic.
Tammy Abraham: 6
Headed against the bar from close range as Chelsea pressurised Newcastle at the start of the second half before spurning another aerial chance thereafter. Had a taxing afternoon against Jamaal Lascelles.
Mateo Kovacic: 6
Came on for Barkley at the end of the first half. Tried to keep Chelsea’s momentum going in the search for a goal.
Christian Pulisic: 7
A chance to shine for the American. Missed perhaps the best chance for Chelsea to break the deadlock when denied by Dubravka from close range but he was lively – and was involved in the build up to the goal.
