Chelsea got 3 more points in the Premier League, as they overcame a stubborn Burnley with a 0-2 scoreline.
Chelsea got their first after a slow start thanks to a beautiful header from Pedro Neto, and a lovely cross from Jamie Gittens.
Then the second goal to kill the game off was thanks to Enzo Fernandez, via some all important resilience from Marc Guiu.
There were some questions around the starting lineup before the game with Moises Caicedo out and Andrey Santos in.
It’s a decision that could’ve backfired judging on Santos’ inconsistent performances so far this season, but it became more of a lightbulb moment for Enzo Maresca instead.
Moises Caicedo has had to play far more games than he should’ve already this season, but that is mainly down to how much of a hole he leaves in our team.
Defensive duties is the main focus of the Caicedo role, and the Brazilian Santos was rock solid today.
Winning 2 out of 3 tackles, making 5 interceptions, 4 clearances and winning 5 out of his 7 ground duels, Santos was everywhere.
The defensive contribution from Santos today was outstanding, and I’m sure Caicedo was looking on from the bench and impressed himself.
The 21-year old made the difference today, making at least three vital interceptions and blocks on a Burnley attack.
Maresca will be looking at this performance with a smile I’m sure, knowing he’s got someone who can fill the Caicedo void when he needs to be rested.
As for Santos, he’s had his critics this season but he’s proving to be exactly what was to be expected of him, which is an extremely useful squad player.
His role in the Chelsea side might become more important in the future, but he’s shown to fill the Enzo Fernandez role and Moises Caicedo role very nicely.
Both of these roles are vital to the way Maresca likes his Chelsea to play, which is why he’s so often relied on both players this season, perhaps more than he should’ve done.
Now, he can start to give either player a well deserved rest every now and then in these kinds of games with Santos around.
Chelsea have Barcelona up next, and while Santos probably won’t start in that game, he has made a case to start bigger games in the future.
