Chelsea vs Leicester Player Ratings

Chelsea overcame a resilient Leicester at Stamford Bridge as they grabbed their second win of the season. A strong second half performance cancelled out a rather laboured first half as the blues made it two wins from two in Premier League.

Here are the player ratings:

Thibaut Courtois: Picked up his first clean sheet for Chelsea on a day when he fully justified Mourinho’s decision to leave Petr Cech on the bench. He made crucial saves denying both Riyad Mahrez and David Nugent at 0-0. His one on one save from the latter was a defining moment in the game. Chelsea were caught on the counter attack and Nugent found himself all alone but was stopped by a sensation save from the Belgian. He was colossal in the air winning everything that came his way and crafted many a breakaway with his rapid distribution. 8.5/10

Branislav Ivanovic: It appears the arrival of Filipe Luis has spurred Ivanovic on knowing his position could be under threat as the Serb put in a quality performance yet again. He was a constant threat going forward and was unlucky to not get a goal as Schmeical denied him on two occasions. He played a crucial role in Costa’s opener, marauding forward from right back to floor two defenders with a feint before assisting Costa. 9/10 (MOTM)

Gary Cahill: Solid performance from the ex Bolton man as he kept Leicester at bay, got a vital touch on a Nugent shot in the first half. Didn’t have much to do but was reliable when called upon. 7/10

John Terry: Won every single header against Leicester. Made an excellent tackle to deny Riyad Mahrez and overall showed his class in a first half were Chelsea were poor. 7/10

Cesar Azpilicueta: Didn’t endure his best performance in a Chelsea shirt as his left flank was penetrated a lot in the first half but cleaned up his act with a strong second half showing. 6/10

Cesc Fabregas: Was smartly nullified by Leicester who didn’t allow the ex Barcelona man as much freedom as he h against Bunrley and found it difficult to control the game but still showed his brilliance on occasions. Was unlucky not to score as Schemical saved his attempted chip but nevertheless provided the assist to Hazard which killed game. 6.5/10

Nemanja Matic: A rare up and down performance from Matic who performed below his normal high standards. Although his was caught in possession a bit he also managed to win the ball back a lot. Making some timely interceptions and tackles; he is important player in this team. 7/10

Oscar: A laboured first half performance was put to bed as he came alive in the second half. Was unfortunate to see his brilliant curling smash the post and played a key role in the first goal providing the ball to Ivanovic, quiet afternoon with flashes of brilliance. 6.5/10

Eden Hazard: Appears to still be warming up for the season as he was largely kept quiet by Leicester’s defence. Like many, as the team improved in the second half, scored the decisive goal in the 77th minute as he toyed with the defence before creating space and firing low from the left. 7/10

Andre Schurrle: Not a great performance from the German who struggled to impose himself on the game. His shooting was wasteful and was unsurprisingly substituted. 5.5/10

Diego Costa: Scored his second goal of the season with his second shot on target. Didn’t have a particularly great game but was there when needed. Took his goal well and received a standing ovation when he made way for Drogba. The man to turn draws to wins for Chelsea. 6/10

Substitues:

Ramires: Showcased his qualities in his 25 minute camo, full of energy and dynamism. 7/10

Willian: After Schurrle’s poor showing Willian took his chance to impress and staked a claim for a start next week. 7/10

Didier Drogba: Was given a wonderful reception on his return to the bridge but on the pitch didn’t have time to get in the game. 6/10