Half-time: Chelsea 1 Hull 0

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Eden Hazard’s fine header put Chelsea on course for an eighth successive home Premier League victory.

The Blues dominated the opening exchanges but created nothing until Hazard headed home Oscar’s inviting seventh-minute cross following some great work by John Mikel Obi.

Mikel, who replaced the suspended Cesc Fabregas in midfield, won possession and then found Oscar on the left wing and the Brazilian’s centre was expertly guided in.

But having gone ahead, Jose Mourinho’s league leaders failed to create many clear chances with their main threat coming from the ever-willing Branislav Ivanovic and the trickery and class of Hazard.

Hull recovered from a shaky start and threatened on occasions, with Sone Aluko blasting their best opportunity over the bar from distance.

Diego Costa was almost gifted a one-on-one chance after a defensive lapse, while Gary Cahill was cautioned for a clumsy challenge that stopped Aluko 30 yards from goal.

Hazard, Ivanovic, John Terry and Willian all returned to the side after being rested for the midweek Champions League win over Sporting Lisbon.

And Filipe Luis was preferred to Cesar Azpilicueta at left-back, while keeper Petr Cech made his first league start of the season as Thibaut Courtois has picked up a minor injury.

Hull are looking or a first ever victory at Chelsea in their 21st appearance.

 

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