Chelsea player ratings: Blues advance to Carabao Cup semis
Xavier Simon (Right Wingback): 6.5/10
The young wingback Xavier Simon was the third academy player in the starting lineup to make his debut. The youngster selected ahead of Reece James had a very mixed game but played well enough to prevent Brentford attackers from scoring a goal. There are certainly quite a few things to improve for the 18-year-old but all in all it was a good experience to have for him. He was replaced by Reece James in the 64th minute.
Mateo Kovacic (Central Midfield): 7/10
Seeing what Thomas Tuchel did after halftime made sure that Mateo Kovacic only started today’s game to get much-needed game time to regain match fitness and sharpness. Throughout his game, Kovacic kept the game ticking and even created a key pass. He was replaced by Jorginho in the 45th minute.
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Saul Niguez (Central Midfield): 7.5/10
Saul Niguez’s recent change from playing as a deep-lying playmaker seems to have suited them best. This was another good performance by the loanee from Atletico Madrid, showing more fights throughout the game than he has ever shown before.
Marcos Alonso (Left Wingback): 7/10
Marcos Alonso had a pretty bad first half, giving away possession and in the attacking half played less impressive crosses which didn’t help the likes of Jude Soonsup Bell and Harvey Vale. As the game went on, the Spanish wingback looked tired and was targeted by the Brentford attackers. Chelsea might as well have to dip in the transfer market for another wingback.