CM: Nemanja Matic – 5/10
Was not able to stamp his authority on the game as per usual as Newcastle made a conscious effort to provide more energy in midfield. Sacrificed on 61 minutes in Chelsea’s attempt to chase the game.
CM: Cesc Fabregas – 6/10
Did not have Diego Costa to find through the middle, and therefore Chelsea’s chief creator switched roles from pass master to distance shooter, going close from range on a couple of occasions. Did not stay with Wijnaldum for Newcastle’s second goal, but why was he man-marking from a corner anyway?
AMR: Pedro – 5/10
The Spaniard missed a golden chance when his side were 2-1 down. Fabregas found his compatriot with a marvellous long pass, and Pedro controlled it perfectly only to blaze over the crossbar.
AMC: Oscar – 6/10
The Brazilian looked as likely as any to find Chelsea a way back into the game before he was substituted on 73 minutes, although his replacement Ramires was the one who scored the cracker.
AML: Eden Hazard – 7/10
Made every effort to get on the ball and make something happen when Chelsea were two goals down. Went on a few mazy dribbles but was eventually stopped in his tracks, sometimes unfairly.
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