Chelsea came from behind to beat Leeds United in the third round of the Carabao Cup, advancing to the next stage with their sights firmly set on going all the way and winning the competition.
The dramatic turnaround in the second half showcased the quality Chelsea possess in their strongest XI, but it also highlighted the considerable gap between the first-team regulars and some of the squad players. The drop-off in performance was clear, particularly during a disappointing opening 45 minutes.
We have already picked out the three biggest winners from the tie, so why not go one step further and look at the other side of the coin?
Here are the three biggest losers from Chelsea’s victory over Leeds.
Estevao and Jamie Gittens
Arguably the biggest losers on the night, with Jamie Gittens just edging Estevao for the unwanted spot. The Brazilian still has plenty of credit and potential in the bank, which gives him a slight pass, but both struggled to make the most of their opportunities.
Neither player really impressed, with both lacking the intensity and cutting edge Chelsea needed in the final third. Gittens at least managed to register a shot on goal, but neither was able to make the same impact as the players who eventually replaced them.
The introductions of Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer only made the comparison more difficult to ignore. The two England internationals combined for two goals and four assists, immediately raising the pressure on Gittens and Estevao for those attacking positions. Their performances also make the competition for regular starting spots even stronger, with Chelsea's depth levels in the final third beginning to look like a foregone conclusion.
Reggie Watson
This one feels incredibly harsh when you consider he is only 16 and was facing a Premier League side, but ultimately, he largely failed to take his opportunity against Leeds United.
His ability to play through the press and his passing were never really in question, with the youngster showing flashes of the technical quality that has earned him his opportunity. However, his physicality and pressing were areas that could be questioned, particularly if he were asked to feature regularly in the Premier League.
The yellow card he picked up before half-time was likely the catalyst for taking him off at the break, and it was probably the right decision given the circumstances. There is no need to rush his development after one difficult game.
Let’s give him a few more seasons before we expect this diamond to be fully polished.
Chelsea defence
Chelsea are looking for more clean sheets, but last night exposed weaknesses when defending deliveries into the box. The first goal came from a corner, while Ethan Ampadu’s long throws caused problems with a further two low crosses into the penalty spot area causing panic and further two goals.
Chelsea have now conceded 10 goals against Premier League opposition in just four games. That must improve, as they cannot rely on outscoring teams every week, particularly in tight games where one defensive mistake or one chance could decide the result
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