Chelsea versus Krasnodar player ratings: Kids steal dull show

Chelsea managed a dull draw against Krasnodar, but it was the kids Tino Anjorin and Billy Gilmour that stole the show and the spotlight.

Having already secured qualification into the next round as well as top spot, Chelsea hosted Krasnodar in its last Champions League group stage game hoping to finish with a flurry. However, Chelsea was held to a 1-1 draw by the Russian side who gave a good account of themselves. Like Chelsea, Krasnodar also had nothing to play for because it had already qualified for the Europa League. Nonetheless, it was an intriguing game to watch as both sides rounded up their continental commitments for the year.

Chelsea would undoubtedly be the less delighted of the two sides as it failed to secure the victory in front of fans who were witnessing European football live for the first time in a while. As expected, Frank Lampard rang the changes for this one and gave UCL debuts to the likes of Billy Gilmour and Faustino Anjorin. How did they and their other teammates fare in the stalemate at Stamford Bridge?

Kepa Arrizabalaga (Goalkeeper): 6.5

Kepa was a spectator for most of the game as attempts at his goal were few and far between. Once again, there are question marks over if he could have done better for the visitors’ opener but that’s probably a tad unfair. It was a decent performance overall albeit not being one that would have increased his chances of getting back his number one shirt back.

Cesar Azpilicueta (Right back): 8

This was a typical Azpilicueta performance. The skipper put in another shift that underlines his commitment and dependability despite losing his starting berth to Reece James this season. The Spaniard also made a crucial block to deny Wanderson what looked like an effort on target and you never know, maybe might have even been a goal.

Antonio Rudiger (Centerback): 7

For a man whose Chelsea’s career looked to be over a few months ago, Rudiger has done pretty well for himself this season. First, he had to work hard to gain Lampard’s trust again and then go on to put in displays that justify any chance he gets to play. He certainly did that against Krasnodar as he put in another wonderful display alongside Christensen in what has now become The Blues’ second choice centerback partnership.

Andreas Christensen (Centerback): 7

The Dane had one nasty fall which looked like it was going to bring his night’s action to a premature end. Christensen, however, recovered to put in an assured display in the heart of the Chelsea backline. In all fairness to him, he has played well the few times he has been called upon since he was dropped from the starting XI.

Emerson Palmieri (Left back): 7.5

Another opportunity to impress was grabbed with both hands by Emerson. He created the most chances for Chelsea (four) on the night, completed the joint-most tackles, and linked up constantly with Faustino Anjorin to good effect on numerous occasions. While he may still be far off posing any substantial threat to Chilwell as regards a starting berth, he has shown that he is a more than reliable backup.