Latest: Chelsea 1 Burnley 0 – Ivanovic strikes for Chelsea yet again

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Branislav Ivanovic’s fourth goal in six games gave Chelsea a deserved lead at Stamford Bridge.

The right-back turned the ball in from close range after a sublime run and cross from the outstanding Eden Hazard.

Chelsea, chasing a 12th home win in 13 Premier League games, made a decent start and could have gone ahead within five minutes.

But Burnley goalkeeper Tom Heaton did well to tip over Juan Cuadrado’s header from a Filipe Luis cross.

At the other end, Thibaut Courtois made a routine save from a spectacular long-range Ashley Barnes strike.

However, the majority of attacking threat was coming from the home side.

Cesc Fabregas, playing in a deeper role to accommodate Cuadrado, was dictating play and allowing the Premier League leaders to dominate possession.

And after Ivanovic’s opener, Oscar had a shot saved from the edge of the box as Chelsea took control just approaching the midway point of the half.

Kurt Zouma and Luis were restored to the starting line-up, while Diego Costa returned up front after completing his three-game domestic ban.

It meant Gary Cahill and Cesar Azpilicueta drop to the bench, while Willian is also a substitute following a recent injury.

Chelsea: Courtois; Ivanovic, Zouma, Terry, Filipe Luis; Matic, Fabregas; Cuadrado, Oscar, Hazard; Costa.
Subs: Cech, Azpilicueta, Cahill, Ramires, Willian, Drogba, Remy.

 

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