Frank Lampard’s youthful Chelsea side marched away with a spirited 2-1 victory over an upbeat Aston Villa team. The Pensioners dominated the game in terms of possession and chances and were extremely unlucky not to register more than twice on the night. Goals from Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount were enough to see out the victory as the Blues got back to winning after two successive league defeats.
Here Are The Chelsea Player Ratings:
Kepa Arizzabalaga – 7
The keeper wasn’t called into action on too many occasions but made a sharp save towards the end from a Douglas Luiz header. He distributed the ball effectively at times as well.
Reece James – 7.5
The youngster has caused Lampard to change his captain’s position, and with good reason. He’s been tearing defences apart since breaking into the team, and tonight was no different.
Andreas Christensen – 7
A largely comfortable evening for the big Dane, who kept the ball moving with his neat passes and spread it out wide quite efficiently as well. Should keep Fikayo Tomori out of the side in the short term.
Kurt Zouma – 7.5
The Frenchman is a man-mountain at the back for Frank Lampard’s side, and his dominance in the air was on show again tonight. He didn’t allow Wesley a single moment of respite over the ninety minutes.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 7
The full-back has seamlessly slotted into the left-sided role and looked as comfortable as ever. Although his delivery into the box still needs work, he’s certainly an upgrade over Emerson on the left flank.
N’Golo Kante – 7.5
The Frenchman misplaced a few passes here and there but was quick to react and win possession back. His presence in midfield gives the defensive line an added sense of security, because of his sheer work-rate.
Mateo Kovacic – 9
The Croatian is gradually becoming this Chelsea team’s most important player. His dribbling and movement in midfield kept the Blues driving forward, and the composure he shows under pressure is otherworldly.
Mason Mount – 7.5
The youngster came in and out of the game in the first half, and took a few bad touches over the course of the tie as well. He popped up when it mattered and scored a sensational winner.
Willian – 7.5
The Brazilian was extremely unlucky not to get his name on the scoresheet, after he saw a blistering free-kick being pushed onto the bar by Tom Heaton. Worked hard in defence and kept the ball smartly.
Tammy Abraham – 7.5
The youngster made his return to league action tonight, and proved once again that he is head and shoulders above the Blues’ other attacking options. Opened the scoring with a peach of a header.
Christian Pulisic – 8
The American had a touch of class about him and looked like he would pierce the whole Villa defence every time he got on the ball. The way he swivels his way past challenges could be why Chelsea fans aren’t missing their beloved Eden Hazard anymore.
Substitutes
Michy Batshuayi – NA
Didn’t have the time to make an impact.
Callum Hudson-Odoi – NA
Didn’t have the time to make an impact.
Jorginho – NA
Didn’t have the time to make an impact.
