Arsenal v Chelsea player ratings
Diego Costa’s first-half goal was enough to give Chelsea a second Premier League victory over Arsenal this season. Here’s how we rated the Blues players in the win at the Emirates Stadium.
Thibaut Courtois: 6
The Belgian had a much quieter afternoon than he could possibly have imagined, not making a save of note. But he was not convincing in dealing with crosses and guilty of one particularly heart-stopping moment when his flapped second-half attempt to clear almost led to a goal.
Branislav Ivanovic: 7
At least partly backed up his manager’s claims that he is back to his best, with an assured defensive display and brilliant first-time cross for the winning goal. Had a nervy last five minutes though.
Kurt Zouma: 7
The Frenchman’s decision making continues to improve and impress. He is fully justifying his place in the side ahead of Gary Cahill.
John Terry: 8
Typically solid and never looked stretched or under pressure. His organisational skills once again came to the fore, ensuring Chelsea maintained a disciplined screen in the centre of the pitch and keeping Arsenal’s intricate interplay at arm’s length.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 8
Stood out in both areas, using his pace to great effect. Blocked numerous crosses, made intelligent use of the ball, and provided support down the left flank too.
John Mikel Obi: 8
He is showing just how vital and influential he can be when deployed in the right way and not left exposed to the counter-attack. Rarely wasted possession, is playing forward a great deal more than he did earlier in the season and bringing much-needed confidence to those around him – most notably Cesc Fabregas.
Nemanja Matic: 7
Very good in the first half but less impressive in the second, when he seemed unsure whether to continue to press or sit back. As a consequence he was sometimes caught in two minds.
Cesc Fabregas: 9
Dictated proceedings from the off, demanding possession, playing with freedom and confidence in an advanced role and finding space in front of the Arsenal defence with total ease. Denied one of the most blatant penalties you are ever likely to see when he was shoved to the ground by Laurent Koscielny.
Willian: 8
Outstanding once again. Made a mess of a late attempt at goal but his sublime pass led to the red card and he was every bit as good as he has been all season.
Oscar: 7
Tenacious, busy and vital to Chelsea’s domination in the first 25 minutes. It was noticeable how the midfield battle was lost to a large extent after the Brazilian was replaced.
Diego Costa: 8
Caught offside more than he should have been but his cute run earned Per Mertesacker his red card and his volleyed finish for the matchwinner was superb.
Loic Remy: 5
Lacked Costa’s work-rate and wasted several promising positions after replacing the Spaniard.
