Chelsea travelled to St James’ Park to lock horns with Newcastle United this afternoon. Both teams are battling for a Champions League berth, and a win last gameweek against the champions Liverpool boosted their spirit regardless of Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest’s persistent push for the final qualification spot. While it was never going to be easy on the road after conceding early into the game, Nicolas Jackson’s marching order further ruined their trip as they failed to script a comeback against the upbeat Geordies.
Below are the Chelsea players rated in their 2-0 defeat against Newcastle United.
Robert Sanchez: 6.5
Could not deal with Jacob Murphy’s exquisite cross before Tonali fired in moments after the kick-off. Made a few saves throughout the game until Bruno Guimaraes’ deflected long-range strike beat the Spaniard in the injury time.
Moises Caicedo: 6.5
Started as a hybrid right-back but was unable to drift down the middle as he did against the Reds at Stamford Bridge. His foul on Anthony Gordon inside the box instigated the Magpies’ move for the early opener.
Trevoh Chalobah: 7
Made some crucial tackles to contain the onrushing Newcastle attack. Did well against Alexander Isak, however, the failure with offside traps often allowed the hosts to open up space in the Blues’ half. Made way for Jadon Sancho late in the match.
Levi Colwill: 6.5
Could not exhibit his usual passing game, particularly being down to ten men following Jackson’s sending off minutes over the half-hour mark. His recoveries and clearances prevented the Tynesiders from causing more menace to the Chelsea defence.
Marc Cucurella: 6.5
Forced Nick Pope to make a vital save around the hour mark. Tried to make a difference with his overlapping runs, crossing and cut-insides from the left-hand flank. Struggled defensively against the in-form Murphy and Harvey Barnes.
Romeo Lavia: 6
His mistake led to Tonali’s goal early into the outing. Was combative in midfield with key interceptions, duels and clearances, but the Belgian did not offer much going forward as he restricted himself to shielding the backline. Was taken off for Malo Guston with 15 minutes remaining.
Enzo Fernandez: 7.5
The skipper was effective with his box-to-box runs, dribbles and down-the-middle movements. Created the most number of chances in the match despite being a man short away from home.
Pedro Neto: 6.5
Whipped in a few crosses from the wide, but the Portuguese was mostly inaccurate with his attempts. Got dispossessed on a couple of occasions and was unable to create enough chances in the Magpies’ box.
Cole Palmer: 6.5
Had a low shot on target saved by Pope. Tried to play his part in the build-ups, but was mostly isolated upfront following Jackson’s dismissal. Another below-par performance from the Englishman after showing his class against Liverpool on Sunday evening.
Noni Madueke: 6
Did not have many touches in the first half, with the home side dominating the space and possession. Was replaced by Reece James at half-time as a tactical alteration.
Nicolas Jackson: 3
A serial offence from the Senegalese saw him receive a marching order. Was not at all involved high up the pitch before making his way down the tunnel.
Chelsea Subs vs Newcastle United
Reece James: 6.5
Added some flair with his relentless runs and aggression. Wasted a golden opportunity to equalise late in the contest.
Malo Gusto: 6.5
Created a golden opportunity for James moments before Bruno Guimaraes’ injury-time goal.
Jadon Sancho: 6.5
Tried to make a mark from the flank with his slick passing move and smart one-twos.
The post Enzo Gets 7.5, Jackson With 3 | Chelsea Players Rated In Their Defeat Against Newcastle United appeared first on The 4th Official.
