Chelsea player ratings: Reece James has outgrown being a “prospect”
By Nate Hofmann
Callum Hudson-Odoi, Right wing: 8
From rupturing his Achilles last April to scoring his first Premier League goal on Saturday, it’s been a long road back for Hudson-Odoi, bookended by home matches against Burnley.
Since his return, there was a common feeling that he was pushing too hard to make something happen every time he was on the field. This was the first time he melded into the flow of a match, and he was rewarded with his first league goal.
The goal was the result of seeing the play unfolding and being in the right place at the right time. Those are the traits of someone who is settling into his role and playing within himself.
It’s been a long time coming, but this was a major step in the right direction for Hudson-Odoi. Extra points for the volleyed flick over Charlie Taylor.
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Tammy Abraham, Striker: 7
He scored Chelsea’s second goal thanks to some catatonic goalkeeping by Nick Pope and an excellent Reece James cross. Even with that goal, however, it was an overall frustrating day at the office for Abraham. Chelsea’s excellent attacking display deserved even more goals, and Abraham failed to convert many of Chelsea’s best chances.
On another day, he walks away with a hat trick and the match ball. Instead, he’ll have to settle for one goal and a comfortable Chelsea win.
Willian, Left wing: 7
Another solid performance, highlighted by the penalty he won in the first half. There weren’t any real eye-catching moments, but he played a part in keeping the pressure firmly on Burnley for the entire match.
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His ability to affect the match all over the pitch makes life easier for everyone else, and this was a good example of how he can set the tone for the younger players around him.