After a defeat at Wembley, Antonio Conte’s men needed a win to kick-off their Premier League campaign as the defending Champions but the evening just wasn’t for them. A red card for Gary Cahill early on changed the game completely and Chelsea were shambles at the back. Burnley hit three before half time after taking full advantage. Alvaro Morata’s goal and assist for Luiz’s goal brought a fresh wave of optimism but it wasn’t to be. It was a horrid opening day with a few positives to take.
Conte will be a worried man but from what we know of the Italian, he will find a way to bounce back strongly.
Here’s how the Blues from London are rated after their defeat:-
GK: Thibaut Courtois – 5/10
Should have done better for the first goal undoubtedly scored by Vokes but he could have done nothing against the other two. The defence let him down big time.
RWB: Caesar Azpilicueta – 6/10
Patrolled down the right and tried to attack but clueless in the defence. Not his day just like his entire team.
CB: Antonio Rudiger – 4/10
A horrific debut against Burnley at home. Got his positioning and defensive efforts all wrong.
CB: David Luiz – 5/10
At fault for Vokes’s third and it was a nightmare at the back today.He let his frustration grow and at the end, his goal was a mere consolation.
CB: Gary Cahill – 1/10
Got a well deserved red for a lousy tackle. Not the card you want to get while being the captain of your club.
LWB: Marcos Alonso – 6/10
Defensively a little weak today but he kept trying time and again for Chelsea. Tested Heaton in the second half as well.
CM: Cesc Fabregas – 3.5/10
It just didn’t click for him in the midfield today and his silly challenge got him a red. Pathetic!
CM: N’golo Kante – 6/10
Loitered around the centre and did his job like he usually does. Ordinary but disciplined and effective on occasions.
LF: Jeremie Boga – 5/10
Couldn’t see much of the youngster as he was sacrificed to bring on Christensen.
RF: Willian – 6/10
Another player who tried to work out something as Chelsea struggled. His superb ball found Morata who converted. It was a dull afternoon but the best could still be brought out of Willian.
ST: Mitchy Batshuayi – 2/10
Hold-up play was really bad and he gave away possession meekly. Don’t think he has done anything to cement his place in the starting eleven.
