1. Jorginho
Jorginho was in the middle of every single passage of play Chelsea had. He did what he does best – sprayed passes all over the pitch, attempted more of 5-6 yard passes, kept it together and tried to create spaces between the opposition’s back line.
Defensively, he as lively and sharp. He contributed with tackles and interceptions whilst winning back possession. In addition, he also kept track of any potential counter-attack. In the entirety of the match, the Brazil-born Italian completed over 150 passes.
The Blues were made to work hard for their chances and instead of trying to take long range shots, they went for a patient game instead. In the same process, Jorginho proved to be the heartbeat of the team.
2. Salomon Rondon
Right from the very first minute, it was clear that Newcastle would sit deep and low, defend for 90 minutes and frustrate Chelsea by taking the game deeper. The game plan was set – to knock long balls and through balls in Rondon’s path. The forward was then supposed to hold the ball up, use his strength to buy time for the midfielders and then occupy the box.
Well, he did most of it quite well. Despite being isolated for most part of the game, the striker never stopped working hard or running. Every time he picked up the ball, there was a sense of hunger and desire to keep possession.
He also proved to be stronger than the likes of Luiz and Kante on occasions and got the Newcastle crowd on their feet by heading an effort wide off goal.
3. Eden Hazard
The Belgian skipper seems to be getting better by the day. Initially, he was marked by over four black and white shirts, but the 27-year-old still found a way out to dictate play, create chances and keep everything moving smoothly. He also dropped deep to take the ball and carry it forward.
He was everywhere. Starting from his movement, Hazard occupied and exploited every single blade of grass in the final third. Given the license to roam around, the little magician linked up play with the likes of Kovacic, Alonso, Azpilicueta and Pedro.
He also provided a few tricks and flicks to enhance his team’s chances of breaking through a resolute defence. Also to add, Hazard won a number of fouls, got his shots away and completed take-ons.
He scored his penalty emphatically too, illustrating his confidence while placing it to near perfection. He could do no wrong, and there is nothing this man cannot do. Take a bow, Eden Hazard.