WBA v Chelsea player ratings

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Cesc Fabregas was sent off as champions Chelsea slipped to just their third Premier League defeat of the season. Here’s how we rated the Blues players in their 3-0 loss at West Brom,

Thibaut Courtois: 6
Will be upset to have been beaten at his near post by Chris Brunt’s fine hit but was let down by his defence. The Belgian was otherwise solid with a couple of fine saves, notably from Callum McManaman’s early shot on the angle.

Branislav Ivanovic: 6
The home side’s ploy of sitting deep denied the right-back the opportunity to run in behind and contribute as much as he normally does. Did well enough on the ball and was steady in defence.

Gary Cahill: 7
Has rediscovered his best form since a dip midway through the season. Could do little about the opening goal and was unfortunate to be on the losing side.

John Terry: 6
Has been impeccable during an ever-present league campaign and was once again impressive. But momentarily lost his bearings when he lunged in on Saido Berahino just after the restart to concede the penalty which the striker got up to convert.

Filipe Luis: 7
A vast improvement on his poor showing against Liverpool, looking much sharper and posing a threat in attack. Got in numerous good positions in the final third and was unlucky not to score with a powerful free-kick.

Nemanja Matic: 8
Imposing and tireless in the holding role, the Serbian stood out in defence and was the instigator of so many of Chelsea’s best attacking moments. Seized control when Chelsea needed him and looked as keen as anyone to avoid a third away loss of the season.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek: 8
Played with greater confidence after his encouraging debut against Liverpool but his greater ambition in attack did little to affect his neat and tidy build-up play and good defensive work. Was prepared to run forward and showed good initiative throughout.

Cesc Fabregas: 5
A stupid dismissal left Chelsea struggling to get back in a game they were beginning to dominate. Fabregas was looking dangerous and although his misdemeanour was hardly dangerous and could easily have resulted in just a yellow card, he can have few complaints. The midfielder’s indiscipline cost his side.

Eden Hazard: 8
The Premier League’s best player continues to maintain the incredible standards he has set from the opening weekend of the season. Was pacy, direct, full of tricks and just as likely to score a goal as create one against a packed defence and with limited support because of the numerical disadvantage.

Loic Remy: 6
Looks somewhat lost playing wide when it comes to his defensive duties despite being willing enough. But the Frenchman was a significant threat when allowed to attack and the slight change in formation when Chelsea had 10 men gave him more freedom. Could easily have scored a couple of goals with a deflected first-half strike and a fine low shot that hit the post after the interval.

Diego Costa: 6
Predictably, and understandably, lacking true sharpness but as busy and effective as ever. Bizarrely booked for the incident which led to the Fabregas red card but managed to restrain himself from reacting to a variety of nasty and niggly challenges that followed as West Brom tried to get the striker sent off.

Juan Cuadrado: 6
Has struggled in a Blues shirt but this was one of his better performances. Showed good energy and confidence, and used the ball sensibly.

Nathan Ake: 6
Made a few decent tackles during 20 minutes of action and looked comfortable. It was just a shame the Dutchman’s first Premier League appearance of the season was not in easier circumstances.

Izzy Brown: 6
Given just over 10 minutes, the 18-year-old former West Brom forward did well enough on his debut despite the hopeless situation.

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