Middlesbrough v Chelsea player ratings

Chelsea moved to the top of the Premier League courtesy of Diego Costa’s first-half winner against Middlesbrough. Here’s how we rated the players in their sixth successive league victory.

Thibaut Courtois: 7

Chelsea’s number one didn’t have to make a save for 77 minutes but kept his concentration levels high to make a decent block from Alvaro Negredo to make sure he earned a sixth successive clean sheet in the league.

Cesar Azpilicueta: 8

As solid and reliable as ever, Chelsea’s Mr Consistent was tidy on the ball and a big reason for the team keeping yet another clean sheet.

Gary Cahill: 8

The England centre-back was once again happy to play second fiddle to David Luiz, but he was still mightily effective, dropping in when the Brazilian burst forward or tried to nick possession.

David Luiz: 8

He was strong in the air, made several crucial interventions, a couple of equally vital cynical challenges and one or two impressive forays upfield in a fine display.

Victor Moses: 9

Another impeccable performance from a player who makes the right-wing back role look a doddle. His defensive positioning has not been truly tested because of Chelsea’s dominance since he switched, but he has looked steady and continues to be a revelation going forward.

Nemanja Matic: 7

Chelsea’s most improved player since last season, the Serbian caught the eye, pressing high up the pitch but never taking risks or neglecting his positional sense in a mindful display.

N’Golo Kante: 8

One sloppy pass aside, which could easily have led to a goal, the Frenchman was superb. He supported the front three, regularly creating space in attack as well as fulfilling his normal defensive duties.

Marcos Alonso: 8

He looked sharp and brought true quality to the attack, where his first touch, awareness and willingness to get into the box always seemed likely to bring a goal. Almost scored with a well-struck shot just after the interval.

Pedro: 8

The Spaniard was once again lively, dangerous and full of running. He was so unfortunate not to score a goal in each half, forcing a stunning first-half save from Victor Valdes and smashing a brilliant second-half effort against the bar.

Eden Hazard: 7

The Belgian is back to his best and although he did not have his most effective game, he remained a real threat throughout despite often being double or triple-marked.

Diego Costa: 8

His 10th goal of the season proved the difference and showed him at his predatory best. The Blues striker was often crowded out but maintained his energy levels, showed typically impressive awareness of his team-mates and refused to get drawn in the niggly sideshows which can sometimes affect his performance.

Nathaniel Chalobah: 6

He did a respectable job in the final 10 minutes, making a couple of notable defensive blocks and playing his part in yet another clean sheet.