Chelsea ended their 2017/18 Premier League season with an unceremonious 3-0 defeat away to Newcastle United. A Dwight Gayle goal and an Ayoze Perez double condemned the Blues to their tenth defeat of the league season, meaning they finish fifth and earn a spot in the Europa League for next season. A poor league campaign for Antonio Conte’s side, who miss out on the Champions League. Here’s how the Chelsea players rated in Sunday’s 3-0 loss at St. James’ Park:
Thibaut Courtois – 5
He made a few good saves early on, and couldn’t really do much about any of the three goals. Let down by the defence.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 5
Not the best day for the defence. When you concede three away to Newcastle, not even someone as consistent as Azpilicueta could help the Blues.
Andreas Christensen – 5
He’s struggled in recent weeks, and this wouldn’t have helped his confidence. Perez and Gayle ran riot.
Gary Cahill – 5
He’s played well in recent weeks, but his World Cup dreams might’ve taken a hit after Sunday’s performance.
Victor Moses – 4
Provided nothing going forward or defensively. Ahead of the FA Cup final, he might’ve allowed Davide Zappacosta to gain a starting spot.
N’Golo Kante – 5
A poor game from Kante, by his standards. Perhaps having Barkley and Bakayoko alongside him in midfield played a part, but he was largely disappointing.
Tiemoue Bakayoko – 4
Another player who probably won’t start in the final, as his performance was also disappointing.
Emerson – 4
Marcos Alonso will start in the final, and Emerson showed nothing to suggest he can replace him.
Ross Barkey – 5
A surprise starter. Perhaps the only player to look bright going forward, and came close to scoring.
Olivier Giroud – 5
Came close with an acrobatic effort, but wasn’t given enough support up front. Hopefully his performance in the final will be better.
Eden Hazard – 5
Like Giroud, he wasn’t given enough support up front. Didn’t do enough to help his side, however.
Substitutes
Alvaro Morata – 4
Offered nothing when he came on.
Willian – 4
Like Morata, he offered nothing when subbed on.
Pedro – N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
