Chelsea ended a winless three-game Premier League run with a professional 2-0 victory over Hull City. Here’s how we rated the players in their fourth league success of the season.
The Blues keeper made one brilliant early stop, changing direction at the last moment to keep out a deflected Robert Snodgrass free-kick but was otherwise untroubled. Kicked cautiously and used the ball well.
Solid and dependable playing as a one of three centre-backs, but the Spaniard took time to adjust – as did the team – in the early stages. Never looked in trouble as Chelsea soon settled into their new formation.
Gave away an early free-kick with a rash attempt to win the ball but was faultless after that and excelled as the ball-playing centre-back in the re-jigged defensive trio. Had little to do in his own area but instigated numerous attacks with his quick-thinking and pinged passes out of defence.
The England defender had one or two nervy moments and, after a couple of high-profile mistakes in recent games, he was understandably reluctant to dally in possession which led to some misplaced passes and rushed clearances. But was still solid enough in defence and dominant in the air.
Chelsea’s standout performer, Moses was the biggest threat in attack before the interval and continued to catch the eye with Chelsea well on top after. Defended impressively and showed great energy and took up some great positions, although his final ball did not always match his approach play.
Along with Moses, the Frenchman was the catalyst for much of Chelsea’s best moments. Was busy and impish and brought bite and tempo to the middle of the park. He did, however, miss an absolute gift of a chance, blasting an effort off target after Diego Costa’s shot hit the post with the score at 0-0.
Arguably his best match of the season, especially after the break when he imposed himself on the match in a more advanced role. His fine foray forward led to Willian’s goal and he provided able support and an awareness of his duties and the need to protect his defence when Kante pushed on.
Demonstrated his quality with his passing and delivery from the left and looked much sharper and brighter than on his previous appearances. Brings balance and a calmness but was caught in defence on a couple of occasions and his relative lack of pace means his positional play has to be almost perfect.
The Brazilian was constantly involved without always finding the right pass. But he was willing, purposeful and effective – and curled in a superb goal to set up victory.
He was starved of possession and quiet before the break but was at his very best in the second period. Made numerous incisive runs with the ball, his movement was excellent and he hit the post with a fine attempt as well as scoring the clinching goal.
The Belgian saw plenty of the ball and like all his team-mates showed more urgency in the second half. He made some fine bursts forward and was very unlucky not to score following a sublime turn and shot. But although he had a decent game, his talent mean it is fair to expect a bit more.
Made a couple of intelligent runs but was sloppy in possession and unable to make an impact after coming on when the game was already won.
This post was last modified on 02/10/2016