Cesc Fabregas’ fourth-minute strike was good enough as Chelsea were 1-0 winners away at Swansea City. The victory means they close the gap to fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur to only two points. Antonio Conte’s side will hope to finish the season in the top four and earn a Champions League place. Here’s who impressed in Chelsea’s narrow win over Swansea on Saturday:
3. Emerson
After really struggling to get first team minutes since his January move from Roma, Emerson has given Antonio Conte a lot to think about in recent weeks. The suspension of Marcos Alonso has given the Brazilian an opportunity, and he’s taken it very well. He was brilliantly defensively, and great going forward. Alonso is back for next week’s game against Liverpool, but it would be harsh to drop Emerson completely. Made an unbelievable run in the second half which should’ve resulted in a goal
2. Cesc Fabregas
His strike early on got Chelsea off to the best possible start. The goal was his 50th in the Premier League, and he took it brilliantly. A superb curling effort that left Lukasz Fabianski with no chance. He linked well with the two attacking players throughout and was perhaps unlucky not to help create more for Chelsea. Was substituted late on after putting in a good shift.
1. Eden Hazard
Another great performance from the Belgian, who has really stepped it up in recent weeks. He provided a great assist for the opener from Fabregas, and was an attacking threat throughout the game. If Chelsea are to secure a spot in the top four, the performances from Hazard will be vital in doing so. He combined well with Olivier Giroud and Fabregas throughout, and provided a great creative outlet as he started in a more central position which allowed him to express himself more often.
