Chelsea were forced to work hard for their three points last time out in the Premier League as they beat a spirited Leicester City side at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues were forced to be patient in attack, as their best efforts were largely dealt with well by their relegation-threatened opponents.
Cole Palmer missed a penalty for the first time in his senior career as his nightmare in front of goal continued, however the main thing was it was another three points in the race for Champions League football.
It was Marc Cucurella who struck the decisive blow at Stamford Bridge, scoring for the second Premier League game in a row as he continued to show a newfound attacking threat.
Highly-critical pundit Frank Lebouef apologised to Cucurella for his comments throughout his time at the club, with the Spain international very much one of the most important players right now.
Photo by Shaun Brooks - CameraSport via Getty Images
Photo by Shaun Brooks – CameraSport via Getty Images
Moises Caicedo joins Marc Cucurella in Premier League Team of the Week
There were a number of other very impressive performances from Chelsea players on the day, with one of those coming in central midfield from Moises Caicedo.
There was an argument for Caicedo to be rested against Leicester due to the fact he is currently one yellow card away from picking up a two-match ban, with games against Arsenal and Tottenham next up.
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However, Maresca took the risk and will be delighted with the outcome as the Ecuadorian put in a match-winning performance of his own in the middle of the park.
Moises Caicedo vs Leicester Total
Minutes 90
Accurate passes 57/61
Chances created 1
Duels won 11/12
Recoveries 8
Caicedo’s performance earned himself a place in WhoScored’s Team of the Week for the last set of Premier League fixtures, alongside Cucurella.
Chelsea risk angering Caicedo
The quality of Enzo Fernandez and the Ecuador international is up there with the best in the league in their position.
Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
Enzo Maresca described Caicedo as ‘fantastic’ after a recent win against West Ham, however it has been noted that the Blues are considering making more additions to the midfield.
One name who has been mentioned as a target is Kobbie Mainoo, as Chelsea consider cashing in on the uncertain financial situation at Manchester United.
However, reports say Mainoo would demand a high wage to join the Blues, a figure higher than Caicedo’s, which would no doubt leave him fuming after the impact he has had on the club in the 18 months he has been here.