How we rated the Chelsea players during their victory over Burnley.
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Chelsea kicked off their Premier League campaign with a victory over Burnley at Turf Moor, largely thanks to a first half blitz in which they responded to Scott Arfield’s opener for the hosts with three quickfire strikers.
Former Huddersfield midfielder Arfield had put Burnley ahead with a fine strike from the edge of the area, but Chelsea quickly leveled when debutant Diego Costa smashed home from close range.
Andre Schurrle quickly had the Blues in front when he swept home from close range after an intricate team move, assisted by Cesc Fabregas, before Branislav Ivanovic bundled home from a corner.
GK) Thibaut Courtois (7)
A strong and commanding debut from Courtois, who had no chance with Arfield’s goal, made one fine fingertip save and took crosses with real confidence.
RB) Branislav Ivanovic (8)
Excellent display by the Serbian, who scored the crucial third goal and was involved in the second, playing a superb ball to Fabregas in the build up.
CB) John Terry (7)
A commanding performance, captain John Terry was rarely troubled after the early Burnley blitz.
CB) Gary Cahill (7)
As with his central defensive partner, England international Cahill was in control throughout and marshaled Danny Ings well.
LB) Cesar Azplicueta (6)
The less obviously impressive member of the Chelsea defence, Cesar Azpilicueta was still perfectly solid at left back.
CM) Nemanja Matic (7)
Matic is a destructive and physical player, he got in amongst Burnley and helped his team to control the middle of the park.
CM) Cesc Fabregas (8.5)
Fabregas ran the show in the first half, coming up with one of the assists of the season and generally controlling the game. He was quieter in the second half, but should be a wonderful signing.
ARM) Andre Schurrle (8)
A strong performance from winger Schurrle, who bagged himself a goal and largely continued his World Cup form at club level.
ACM) Oscar (6.5)
Oscar was largely quiet, despite Chelsea’s dominance – there must still be fears that he is suffering from burnout.
ALM) Eden Hazard (7)
Hazard wasn’t at his best, but still caused real problems for Kieran Trippier – the Belgian is clearly a superb footballer.
SC) Diego Costa (8)
Costa was superb on his debut, holding the ball up well, causing all sorts of problems and opening his account with an emphatic finish.
