Chelsea v Spurs player ratings
Chelsea kept their top-four ambitions well and truly on track with a victory over rivals Tottenham. Here’s how we rated each Blues player in the 2-0 win Stamford Bridge.
Willy Caballero: 6
He predictably got the nod ahead of Kepa but had no chance to prove his credentials, with Spurs not managing a single effort on target. He was beaten by a fierce Harry Winks strike that hit the bar but that was the only dangerous moment.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 7
The Spaniard gave a typically understated showing at right-back, winning his tackles and doing everything asked of him without fuss.
Antonio Rudiger: 7
Rudiger endeared himself to supporters with a full-blooded performance and his willingness to get involved in any altercations with a predictably agitated Tottenham side, who could once again see their slim title hopes fading at Stamford Bridge.
David Luiz: 8
A commanding display from the Brazilian who banished memories of his dismal efforts in an equally dire team performance in the reverse fixture. Confident, composed and superb in possession.
Marcos Alonso: 6
He did the simple things well on his return to the side, making a couple of vital defensive interceptions and sensibly always keeping an eye on his responsibilities even when Chelsea were pressing at the other end.
Jorginho: 6
Started well, but was too often ponderous in possession and guilty of trying to take time when there wasn’t any. He did contribute to a steady defensive display, organising and cajoling effectively in the latter stages.
N’Golo Kante: 8
He once again reigned supreme in the midfield, never once looking like a player who had run himself into the ground for 120 minutes at Wembley. His energy levels are ridiculous and he seems increasingly comfortable playing in more advanced areas.
Mateo Kavacic: 7
The Croatian looked sharp and impressive in tight areas throughout, setting up several attacks with his quick feet and awareness.
Pedro: 8
He never stopped running, a trait in perfect evidence both for his fine individual goal and the wonderful defensive tackle and subsequent mazy dribble away from danger soon after. The standout attacker on the field.
Eden Hazard: 6
Hazard looked tired and was unusually sloppy in possession. He understandably struggled to reach the heights of his stylish Wembley performance on Sunday.
Gonzalo Higuain: 6
Back in the side after missing out on the Carabao Cup final, Higuain was desperately unlucky not to score when his clever sliced strike hit the post but then missed a great chance after a terrible Hugo Lloris clearance. His off-the-ball running was typically cute but he gave the ball away way too much in the second half.
Willian: 6
He crucially upped the energy levels just as the Blues were flagging slightly and was desperate to get a finishing touch to claim the second goal after the horrendous mix-up between Kieran Trippier and Lloris.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek: 6
He didn’t really have time to make an impact despite his obvious desperation to get involved. The England midfielder will surely get his chance in the coming weeks.
Olivier Giroud: 6
Seconds after coming on his flicked header caused the confusion which led to the game-clinching second goal and he helped see the game out.