Chelsea 2-1 Bournemouth: Ranking the returning loanees

=5 Conor Gallagher

Chances of Staying: 3/5; Match Performance: 3/5

Gallagher was one of the players lacking that little bit of match sharpness, which could be seen in his passes and, at times, rash challenges. Despite that, the youngster enjoyed a solid first half alongside Drinkwater, the latter given more freedom to be more expressive with his passing. The 21-year-old was tenacious in his tackling, although he seemed over-eager at times to win the ball back, which led to unnecessary fouls.

The youngster had a bad period at the start of the second half while playing as the deepest midfielder and nearly gifted the opposition a goal after an untimely slip. But he was the only player on the pitch to complete the full ninety. Chelsea is yet to decide his future, but that was a positive sign.

=5 Ruben Loftus-Cheek

Chances of Staying: 3/5; Match Performance: 3/5

Things could have been different for Loftus-Cheek had it not been for one such friendly match. However, the returning midfielder showed glimpses of his talent against Bournemouth, using his nimble footwork to carve out space for himself and his teammates. The most important thing for him is his fitness this season. To that end, it was a step in the right direction.

Loftus-Cheek was wanted by Maurizio Sarri at Lazio earlier this summer, but links have since died down.

=5 Malang Sarr

Chances of Staying: 3/5; Match Performance: 3/5

Chelsea could decide to keep Sarr in and around the first-team this season, given that he provides a natural alternative to Antonio Rudiger as the left centerback. He enjoyed a solid first-half against Bournemouth, too, barring one occasion when he was dragged out of position, allowing Solanke to run in behind.

=5 Dujon Sterling

Chances of Staying: 3/5; Match Performance: 3/5

Chelsea, reportedly, is set to hand Sterling a new contract. Whether that is to protect his value – his contract expires in 2022 – or if they have plans for him remains to be seen. Sterling can play as a right-back or a right wing-back, although against Bournemouth, he started as the right centerback. He enjoyed a solid 45 minutes with nothing flashy but nothing detrimental either.

#1 Armando Broja

Chances of Staying: 4/5; Match Performance: 4/5

Chelsea tied down Broja to a long-term deal earlier this month, resting the unease that had crept into its fanbase following the departures of several academy stars. Broja, reports have said, could also be handed a chance in and around the first team this season as one of the backups in the attacking positions.

If that is the case, then his 45 minutes on the pitch must have impressed Tuchel. Not only did the youngster score the equalizing goal, but he also had a pretty good game overall. Broja linked well with his teammates, pressed with intensity, and held the ball up in an almost Olivier Giroud-esque manner. Chelsea’s best performer on the night by far, one who did his chances to stay at the club this season no harm.

How would you rank the returning loanees? Let us know in the comments and on Twitter!