Chelsea have cemented their command of fourth place in the Premier League by defeating Newcastle United 2-1 at Stamford Bridge.
The display, though, was certainly lacking as they meandered rustily through the match in west London.
A sublime opener from Pedro, which saw David Luiz ping a sensational pass in behind the Magpies’ defence, was cancelled out by Ciaran Clark.
But Willian earned Maurizio Sarri’s side all three points in the end as he cut inside and curled home an excellent strike in the second half.
So, how did we rate the Chelsea players on show in the victory? Find out below…
Kepa Arrizabalaga – 6/10
Supporters are questioning the performances of the goalkeeper who signed for a world-record fee in the summer. It would be harsh to suggest he could have kept Ciaran Clark’s header out of the net but overall he was fine on the night.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 6/10
A solid but unspectacular display from the Spaniard who doesn’t appear to be doing as much offensively for the Blues at the moment, especially with no striker to hit with crosses.
Marcos Alonso 5/10
The left-back continues to look tired and he looked limited against Newcastle and found wanting with a flat display.
Antonio Rudiger 6/10
After a good showing against Tottenham, the German struggled when faced with the task of marking Salomon Rondon. His positioning looked poor and aerially he found it tough too.
David Luiz 7/10
Back in the team after rotation in the Carabao Cup, the Brazilian showed his class with a stunning assist for Pedro. Smart in possession and diligent in the face of danger he did well throughout but wobbled slightly on occasion.
Jorginho – 5/10
Another frustrating afternoon in central midfield for the Italian who was booked for halting a Newcastle counter as he found it tough to handle his defensive duties.
N’Golo Kante 6/10
Not at his brilliant best in the Chelsea midfield but did a lot better than some of his team-mates who were off the boil at Stamford Bridge.
Mateo Kovacic 6/10
Unable to complete 90 minutes once again, the Croatian will be frustrated. Not the worst game he’s had this season with some threatening runs and decent distribution.
Pedro – 7/10
A lively display saw him get the game’s opening goal with a fine lob, despite Clark climbing all over him and Martin Dubravka running at him. He was one of Chelsea’s bright spots in a poor display both going forward and tracking back.
Willian – 6/10
The Brazilian was having a pretty poor game but after 57 minutes he managed to cut inside and fire home a lovely strike for Chelsea’s second goal. If Barcelona want him it might not be a bad idea to cash in.
Eden Hazard – 6/10
He isn’t enjoying too much success in his role as the most central forward player but such is his threat he’s helping team-mates by occupying the position. He often drew the attention of several black and white shirts allowing Willian and Pedro more space. He also notched his 10th assist of the season.
Substitute – Ross Barkley – 4/10
The former Everton man looked one dimensional when he came on and lacked the forward momentum needed to keep Chelsea threatening a third goal.
Substitute – Callum Hudson-Odoi – 6/10
Made a difference when he entered the field of play and seemed keen to make things happen and impress Maurizio Sarri. It can be long before he’s starting Premier League matches.
Substitute – Olivier Giroud – N/A
On for just three minutes, he ensured Hazard was able to get some much needed rest.
