Jamie Gittens played a big role in Chelsea’s goal against Leeds United on Wednesday night, but it was not enough to help his side win the game.
In the end, Chelsea went on to lose 3-1, with Tosin Adarabioyo making a costly error in the second half.
Gittens was substituted prior to his teammate’s mistake, but not before setting up Pedro Neto’s consolation with an accurate cross.
Very clever finish! Is Pedro Neto Chelsea’s best attacker right now?
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However, former Manchester United and England defender Gary Neville was not completely impressed with the winger.
Jamie Gittens of Chelsea is challenged by Jayden Bogle of Leeds United
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Gary Neville doesn’t understand why Jamie Gittens was so negative before assist
Neville thought that Gittens was not positive enough until he took on his man and put the ball into the box for Neto.
Commentating on the game for Sky Sports (03/12/2025 at 21:25), he said: “Gittens has been so negative in this game, but this time he goes straight at [Jayden] Bogle — why’s he not been doing that for the last 50 minutes?”
Whether Gittens was positive enough or not, in the end, it was Chelsea’s poor defending that cost them.
The Blues defended poorly in the first half before Adarabioyo’s mistake ended any chance they had of coming back.
Enzo Maresca continues to overlook Josh Acheampong. Do you agree with his decision?
Josh Acheampong of Chelsea FC arrives at stadium
Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
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Overall, it was a terrible night at the office for Chelsea. At one stage, Enzo Maresca was seen speaking to his players during a break in play as he tried to address some issues. It never worked.
Jamie Gittens of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Chelsea
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Jamie Gittens one of Chelsea’s better players against Leeds
Honestly, Neville is being a bit harsh. Yes, Gittens did not always take on his full-back, but Leeds made things very difficult for Chelsea. At times, there was simply nowhere for the 21-year-old and Estevao Willian to go.
Even so, as per Sofascore, Gittens still managed to complete three dribbles and complete two accurate crosses.
Who was Chelsea’s best player vs Leeds?
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On the night, he was definitely one of Chelsea’s best players. Given how poorly the rest of the team played, though, it is probably not the greatest feat.
Nevertheless, Gittens continues to show glimpses. Once he gets a run in the team and is full of confidence, his play will start to look even more positive and hopefully satisfy Neville and others.