A number of individuals stepped up to the plate when it mattered for Chelsea against Nottingham Forest, however one player isn’t getting the credit he deserves for his recent performances.
The half-time substitutions from Enzo Maresca changed the game for the Blues, after they struggled to get going in the first half.
They have been desperately missing a number of key players, including Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill and Liam Delap, who is expected back next month.
Delap’s absence has seen Joao Pedro start near enough every game in the striker position, despite showing already at Stamford Bridge that he looks more comfortable playing off the number nine.
Nottingham Forest v Chelsea - Premier League
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Joao Pedro’s Chelsea performances are going under the radar
The Brazilian is without a goal in his last seven games for the club in all competitions, however has been forced to bear a lot of the attacking responsibilities himself.
As well as injuries, the Blues have cost themselves two Premier League games against Manchester United and Brighton due to red cards, with the attacking options becoming far limited as a result.
The attacker had already struggled with fitness throughout the early stages of this campaign too, however will have benefitted when Pedro was left out of the Brazil squad for the recent international break.
Pedro has struck up a relationship with Estevao Willian already since their arrivals, and the duo are going to be called upon in Palmer’s absence to continue to be the creative forces in West London.
Joao Pedro celebrates his Chelsea goal during the Premier League victory over West Ham at the London Stadium.
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Pedro’s underrated performance vs Forest
After starting up front, the game-changing introduction of Marc Guiu allowed him to take up the number 10 position, where he was able to influence the game far more.
Joao Pedro stats vs Nottingham Forest Total
Minutes 90
Chances Created 2
Duels Won 8
Passes into final third 9
Shots 1
Pedro won the most duels of any player on the pitch, and was the only driving force the Blues had in a first half where they really struggled.
The attacker will have to watch on from the sidelines when Chelsea return to Champions League action on Wednesday night against Ajax. He will be suspended following his red card against Benfica.