Ramires – 7
Given a more offensive role than has been true of late for the 26-year-old and the South American took full advantage with pot shots at goal and surging runs.
John Obi Mikel – 8
A great day for the Nigerian who was not only strong in the centre of the field and broke up play, but also scored the opener with a rare strike.
Michael Essien – 6
Put in the side to cause Derby problems and that was essentially what the midfielder did, but there was little else from Essien.
Oscar – 8
Was on the score-sheet but that was more down to an error from the Rams ‘keeper, yet it was Oscar’s all round play that caught the eye as the Brazil international burst with creativity.
Willian – 7
Struggled in the first half but the winger found the pace of the game in the second and was on hand to pick out Mikel for the first goal.
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