Chelsea player ratings as Jackson nets, Palmer shines & Sanchez struggles

Chelsea found a goal and a win against Brighton in a game that they will hope is a launchpad for their season. The Blues keep one chance of silverware alive as they progress to the Carabao Cup fourth round.

The opening period saw Chelsea unable to dominate a team who looked more proficient than them in a number of areas. Once again, however, they showed plenty of threat without finding a goal, though it was probably the Seagulls who looked more accomplished.

The second half saw Chelsea take the lead via a cool strike from Nicolas Jackson, when the Senegal international provided a simple pass into the net reminiscent of the goals he registered in the United States in the summer. That was what was necessary for the Blues to find the result they desperately needed, and a battling performance if not always a classy one.

Robert Sanchez - Was very lucky when he passed it straight to Joao Pedro in the opening half and the Brighton star's lob landed on top of the net. The first time his distribution has come under scrutiny with the Seagulls employing an impactful press. Pulled off a much-needed save from Solly March. 5.

Marc Cucurella - The Spaniard had not played a minute since the second round of the competition, and found himself in an unfamiliar role up against a top tier talent in Kaoru Mitoma. After a decent first half, his second period started pretty poorly with a couple of miskicks, and was much better when he could aggressively defend, and was very good against Joao Pedro. 6.

Axel Disasi - Produced some decisive defending to win the ball in crucial moments for the Blues. Stood up well as a leader in Thiago Silva's absence. 7.

Levi Colwill - Displayed some impressive passing with his weaker foot having been moved into the