Chelsea players who let the side down vs Celtic and impressive Blues

Some Chelsea players let the side down in the recent friendly against Celtic. And there were also a few CFC stars who impressed during the 4-1 defeat to the Scottish Premiership champions. Which of boss Enzo Maresca's men stood out for the right and wrong reasons according to national press reports?

If not for a last minute Christopher Nkunku penalty, Blues blushes would have been more pronounced. Even though practice matches are just that, it has to be said that this was an unexpected drubbing for the Chels' squad. A roster that must learn a new manager's ways. A team that also requires confidence for the challenge of a challenging and expanded campaign with European football added to the equation.

Enzo Maresca's system and early Chelsea favourites

Of course, The Pride of London will have a better idea of who Maresca will rely on this season following subsequent preseason encounters. We will certainly know who the Italian rates when the first match of the new term gets underway versus Manchester City.

But for now we can judge by what has occurred over two separate 90 minute fixtures. This will give us a simple template of what is probably to come under the former Leicester City chief. It should be added that this is somewhat of an experimental period for Maresca in his latest role.

First of all, formation: Chels lined up with three defenders and two wing back for both matches. This choice of set-up was a particular surprise because Maresca employed a flexible 4-3-3 at King Power Stadium with the Foxes.

In addition to that fact, the gaffer is a Pep Guardiola disciple: he doesn't usually use a wingback style, yet does deploy a so-called inverted full back. However, Maresca is still using that trick with Reece James at present.

I suspect he'll revert to a 4-man defence by the EPL opener, though it is technically hybrid. One shock was Tyrique George's inclusion in the starting lineup for the Red Dragons clash. The youngster gave a good account of himself.

Chelsea ratings vs Celtic

So, which players were standouts to varying degrees as the Hoops' Matt O'Riley, Kyogo Furuhashi, Luis Palma and Michael Johnston buried the Blues? The consensus appears to be that Robert Sanchez and Benoit Badiashile both had bad games at the back.

James is still acclimatising to his new role. Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke could do better. While Nkunku and Marc Guiu were sharp.