Chelsea ended their woeful run of one win in seven Premier League game with a 2-0 victory against Tottenham to ease the pressure on Thomas Tuchel.
Hakim Ziyech struck the opener shortly after the break with a fine strike from outside the area, Spurs having earlier been controversially denied a Harry Kane goal for a push on Thiago Silva.
It was the Brazilian who sealed the points with a header shortly after Ziyech’s goal, earning the Blues a vital three points.
James Robson was at Stamford Bridge to rate the players...
Kepa Arrizabalaga - 6
Denied Harry Winks early on and pushed away Kane’s late effort. Well shielded by his defence for most of the game. Good handling and anticipation when required.
Cesar Azpilicueta - 7
Slipped back into a back four comfortably. Organised those around him well and got forward in support.
Antonio Rudiger - 8
Utterly dominant performance at the back. He loves playing Tottenham and was up for every duel.
Thiago Silva - 8
Pure class. Perhaps a touch fortunate that Kane’s push was ruled a foul when Spurs looked like taking the lead, but was outstanding in his defensive duties and killed the game off with his header.
Malang Sarr - 7
Has done his reputation the world of good during Chelsea’s hour of need. Has been equally effective at left-back or in a defensive three.
Mason Mount - 9
His best performance in a long time. Set up Lukaku for two golden chances the Belgian could not take and then provided the cross for Silva’s goal.
Jorginho - 5
He does not look comfortable as a solo holding midfielder. Used the ball well, but looked vulnerable when Spurs broke.
Mateo Kovacic - 8
Strode through midfield. Totally dominated in central areas in a more attacking role. Justified the decision to rest N’Golo Kante, which says everything.
Hakim Ziyech - 9
Back to his best. Now if Tuchel can just get these types of performances from him on a consistent basis. Wonderful, wonderful goal set Chelsea on course for a crucial win.
Romelu Lukaku - 7
Far more involved than in recent games – and, crucially, got quality service. A nightmare for Spurs’ defenders, but his finishing really let him down.
Callum Hudson-Odoi - 7
Gave Tanganga twisted blood. Consistently committed Spurs players with his dribbling and it was his run that set up Ziyech’s brilliant opener.
Substitutes
N’Golo Kante (Jorginho, 73)’ - 5
The last thing Spurs wanted to see and just gave Chelsea even more control in midfield.
Marcos Alonso (Hudson-Odoi, 87’)
Saul Niguez (Ziyech, 90+1’)
Subs unused: Bettinelli, Chalobah, Barkley, Havertz, Pulisic, Werner
