Chelsea player ratings vs. Newcastle: A complete performance

Callum Hudson-Odoi (Right wingback): 7/10

Callum Hudson-Odoi played well. He was a problem for the left side of Newcastle’s defense as he kept running down that wing and crossing dangerous balls into the box. He contributed equally well to defense, making two interceptions and four tackles. He has featured in every game under Tuchel and he would want to do everything he can not to lose his place, he’s doing himself justice so far. He created two chances, and he has earned every minute that he’s been give. Hudson-Odoi has been one of the major beneficiaries of a change in manager.

Mateo Kovacic (Central midfielder): 9/10

Mateo Kovacic has also benefited generously from the arrival of the former Paris Saint-Germain boss, not just in playing minutes, but in playing roles. The demands put on Kovacic are a lot less. He has been playing well this season and has therefore started all league games under Tuchel, as well. Kovacic was Chelsea’s best player against Newcastle. He completed the most passes (87) and won a whooping 11 out of 13 ground duels. He created two chances, including one clear cut chance. Kovacic also completed the most dribbles for the Blues, completing 100 percent of his eight attempted dribbles. Yes, eight! He contributed his fair share to defending, making three tackles, as well.

Jorginho (Central midfielder): 7/10

Jorginho had a satisfactory performance. His distribution was tidy, completing 94 percent of his passes. He also won nine out of 14 duels. The Italian won the most fouls for Chelsea on the night and made four tackles. The hype that followed him from Napoli by many fans who thought really highly of him, has affected how he’s judged. Many judge him as the player he’s perceived to be, rather than the player he actually is. He’s not an excellent deep-lying playmaker, but also not a rubbish defensive midfielder. Jorginho has flaws like every other player, but his contribution to the team is often dismissed, and that’s not good.

Marcos Alonso (Left wingback): 8/10

Marcos Alonso’s return to the side also raised some questions and many fans expected him to be flailing, throwing around false perceptions of his ability. Alonso deserves some credit because even before the bus incident, he had come under a lot of unfair criticism and scrutiny since the beginning of last season. Alonso has shown why he deserves to continue starting, which has been made slightly easier by Ben Chilwell not looking very good at wingback. Not only was Alonso defensively solid, he also contributed very well to the attack. He tied Azpilicueta in clearances, and made one tackle and one interception. He also created two chances, including one big chance. If he continues playing this way, he’d relegate the other left backs at the club to substitute appearances and cup matches.

Reece James (Right wingback): N/A

Reece James didn’t do much with the 12 minutes he was given. The only thing that comes to mind is the low-driven shot he took just after coming on that was saved by Karl Darlow.