Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Burnley saw a number of top individual performances, but Pedro Neto rates one above the rest.
Neto could make an argument for Chelsea’s best player at Turf Moor. The Portuguese was on the scoresheet once again, getting on the end of a quality Jamie Gittens delivery.
He was also key to the direct approach taken by the Blues at times, using his pace and strength to pounce onto long balls.
After the game, though, there was only one player Neto wanted to praise, and rightly so.
Who was your player of the match vs Burnley?
Pedro Neto commends Andrey Santos for Burnley performance
Santos put on his best Chelsea performance yet on Saturday afternoon.
Moises Caicedo was left on the bench, and the Brazilian grabbed his chance with both hands. He was everywhere on the pitch, not giving the Burnley players a second to breathe.
After the game, the Portuguese made sure to give his teammate the credit.
He said: “It was a relief as it’s a difficult ground to go to. Yesterday in training, I had a really bad header, but I’m happy with today’s one.
“Andrey Santos was unbelievable, we need this type of performance when there are lots of battles. It’s always good to come back from the break with a win, we are looking forward to the big games.”
You and me both, Pedro.
Neto is bang in form for Chelsea
As much as Santos was good value for his Player of the Match award, it easily could have gone to Neto instead.
Chelsea are very happy with Estevao Willian, who is emerging as a starter for Maresca.
But Neto has been on fire, too, with three goals and two assists in his last five league outings.
End product has always been the concern with Neto, but he’s rewriting the narrative with these performances.
Maresca is being given a headache on the right flank, but it’s a happy problem to have.