PUL-ING THE STRINGS

Chelsea player ratings: Pulisic continues purple patch with another goal but Kante struggles on return from injury

Duncan Wright

Published: 14:42, 9 Nov 2019
Updated: 14:49, 9 Nov 2019

CHELSEA made it six Premier League wins on the bounce thanks to yet another goal from Tammy Abraham.

The Blues No9 bagged his tenth Prem strike of the campaign, slotting in what proved to be the winner against Crystal Palace.

Christian Pulisic and Tammy Abraham got the goals as Chelsea beat Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge, with Willian also impressiveCredit: Reuters

In-form winger Christian Pulisic also got in on the act with a diving header to seal the points at Stamford Bridge.

And while Willian impressed with the captain's armband, N'Golo Kante struggled a little on his return after a month out with injury.

Here's how SunSport's Duncan Wright rated Frank Lampard's men...

KEPA ARRIZABALAGA - 6

Nothing to do in the opening half except keep himself warm as Chelsea completely dominated. It was the same again after the break.

REECE JAMES - 7

More than comfortable in his job on his first Prem start, and looked more than up to the task of keeping Zaha quiet. Won’t be the last time he impresses either.

KURT ZOUMA - 7

Had Ayew in his pocket for the opening half. Growing into the season and his partnership with Tomori is beginning to look more assured with every match.

FIKAYO TOMORI - 7

Plays with a composure which belies his lack of experience in the top division. Calm and assured, and never looked troubled in an excellent display.

EMERSON PALMIERI - 7

From the outset looked to attack as much as possible down the left. A far better outlet than Marcos Alonso in that position for his side.

N’GOLO KANTE - 6

Such a welcome sight back in the starting line-up, though at times looked as though he needs games to regain his full sharpness.

MATEO KOVACIC - 7

Sitting deep in the midfield role vacated by Jorginho, he immediately set about trying to dominate that area of the pitch. Won his key battles and put in an excellent shift for his side.

MASON MOUNT - 6

Such a willing worker, but in the absence of Jorginho and Barkley he needs to step up and be the creative force, and struggled in that area early on. Looked livelier as the game opened up in the second half.

WILLIAN - 8

Handed the captaincy and quickly began to play with purpose, and was unlucky to see a 25-yard free-kick curl inches wide. Looked the brightest of the Chelsea midfielders and his flick led to the opener.

CHRISTIAN PULISIC - 8

Starting to look as though he is enjoying himself again, and only denied a wonderful opener by a fine Guaita save. Kept on going and finally got the goal his display deserved before receiving a standing ovation from the fans.

TAMMY ABRAHAM - 6

Hardly got a sniff in the first half as Gary Cahill marshalled him well. But bright as a button to latch on to Willian’s flick to score his tenth of the season.