Chelsea’s slump continued with a 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa. Chelsea raced into an early lead at Villa Park when Enzo Fernandez turned home Pedro Neto’s cross, but a half-time substitution from Unai Emery proved to be the difference. Marcus Rashford, signed on loan from Manchester United in the January transfer window, recorded two assists for fellow new loanee Marco Asensio as Villa came from behind to inflict a third straight defeat on the Blues.
Here’s how Enzo Maresca’s side rated at Villa Park... Filip Jorgensen 5. Two key saves from Watkins in the first-half. Looked to have made another massive one from Malen late on, but clanger from resulting corner gifted Villa all three points. Malo Gusto 5.
Back in use as a conventional full-back and posed a lively threat down the right during first-half. Found things much tougher against Rashford after the break, but made one vital tackle on the Englishman in the box. Trevor Chalobah N/A. Injured in early collision with Marco Asensio and forced off.
Levi Colwill 6. Physical tussle with Watkins ended just about all-square. Read the game well and looked to take advantage of Neto’s pace with long balls. Marc Cucurella 6. Superb block to deny Watkins when forward seemed certain to equalise. Reece James 6.
A surprise move into midfield for the captain. Caught in possession once or twice, but brought security and some of his passing was excellent. Moises Caicedo 6. Appreciated the support in midfield having been overworked of late. Superb pass should have ended in Palmer goal. Booked.
Enzo Fernandez 6. Took full advantage of extra licence to attack by crashing the six-yard box to open scoring, but slow out to play Rashford onside for Villa leveller. Booked and lucky to stay on the pitch having lost his head. Cole Palmer 5. Moved back to last season’s role off the right as part of rejig and looked more threatening but scoring touch has deserted him. Had to score when put through by Caicedo.
Pedro Neto 7. Another with a new role, sent through the middle. Pace and movement caused all sorts of problems early on and play to set up Fernandez goal was outstanding. Scuffed a decent chance on the volley. Christopher Nkunku 4. Marginally more involved off the left than through the middle but still easily the least threatening of Chelsea’s attackers. Booked.
