MARC CUCURELLA was Chelsea’s star of the show in the 1-1 draw with Arsenal.
Enzo Maresca’s men survived late Gunners pressure to earn a hard-fought point that sees the Blues stay above their London rivals on goal difference.
Here is how SunSport rated the Chelsea players’ performances.
Robert Sanchez – 6
Still punches the ball clear when a catch would be much safer – and reassuring for the fans behind him.
Malo Gusto – 6
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Went close with a header in the first-half. But was missing at right-back when Arsenal took the lead through Gabriel Martinelli’s 59th minute goal. The problem with also playing in midfield.
Wesley Fofana – 7
Strong challenges and now fully back from lengthy injury. Also went close to a goal in the second half when he pumped the ball just over.
Levi Colwill – 6
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Forging a partnership with Fofana at the heart of defence. Got caught dangerously in possession by Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard but recovered.
Marc Cucurella – 7
Cracking tussle with Bukayo Saka. Despite being one of only three men on the pitch wearing gloves, including the keepers, Chelsea’s left-back is a formidable defender.
Moises Caicedo – 6
Enjoying a run of form at the moment that includes last weekend’s volleyed equaliser at Manchester United. Strong tackler and smooth through the gears in midfield.
Romeo Lavia – 6
A surprise package keeping £107million Enzo Fernandez out of the team. After a terrible run of injuries is forming some consistency. But any twinge is a scare and came off in the 66th minute.
Noni Madueke – 6
Called up to the latest England squad and is mobile and nippy. Also seemed a bit stroppy and went straight down the tunnel when subbed in the 66th minute. Perhaps needed treatment.
Cole Palmer – 6
Maybe the sore knee is still troubling him. Only trained yesterday for the first time in almost a week. But it hampered his impact on a disjointed London derby.
Pedro Neto – 7
Starting to make his presence felt after being relegated to the Conference League matches. Stunning powerful drive for the equaliser and full of energy.
Nicolas Jackson – 6
Feisty and fiery but went to ground too easily to win a couple of free kicks when he could have done more damage on his feet. Gives everything though.
Subs:
Enzo Fernandez (Lavia 66 mins) – 5
Has a fight on his hands to prove himself to boss Maresca despite his enormous price tag.
Mykhailo Mudryk (Madueke 66 mins) – 5
Pace and determination but still questions over his quality at the highest level.
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Christopher Nkunku (Jackson 87 mins) – 5
Last throw of the dice by Chelsea to snatch a victory.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
