Chelsea: Ruben Loftus-Cheek leads player ratings vs. Bournemouth
By George Perry
Cesc Fabregas, Midfielder: 6.5
Fabregas’ second half brings down his overall score. He was in the 7.5-8 range for the first half, when he showed yet again how much more fluid and dynamic Chelsea are in midfield when he is playing instead of Jorginho. Fabregas is more willing to leave the deep-lying playmaker position in search of the best place to line up the next perfect pass. His movement instigates movement by the entire midfield, as the others must adjust to ensure the Blues don’t have six players up front and no one back minding the defence. This movement eliminates predictability that often settles in with Jorginho, giving Chelsea more options on offence and giving the opponent more to worry about on defence.
As the second half wore on, though, Fabregas’ decision-making and execution declined continuously. His movement was less fluid, his passes and shots were off the mark and off their timing. Some of this is due to Bournemouth coming more into the game, requiring Fabregas to stay deeper and defend rather than dictate play forward. Another aspect could be fatigue, since he has played three complete games in the last 14 days after only two in the preceding month.
Mateo Kovacic, Midfielder: 7
Kovacic had an unusual game, leading the Blues with 121 passes and having a much greater role setting the movement through midfield. He and Loftus-Cheek rotated well together with Loftus-Cheek in a new role on the wing. Kovacic’s shot selection and execution leaves much to be desired still, particularly his complete whiff on a volley in the second half. But his employment in this game is likely another outgrowth of Fabregas’ movement, giving Sarri more elements to consider.
Ross Barkley, Midfielder: 6
Barkley was one of two Chelsea players with three shots on target, but none particularly threatened Artur Boruc. Barkley seemed the most affected negatively by the new XI, as he did not fully click with those around him and found little expression for his play through the centre.