Chelsea player ratings vs Preston as Gilchrist shines, Broja nets and Gusto delivers
It was by no means a classic but Chelsea navigated their way through to the fourth round of the FA Cup with a 4-0 win over Preston North End.
After 45 minutes, anyone who had decided against turning up for Chelsea's first match of 2024 would have felt vindicated. In truth, it did not look like much would change from an uninspiring first half until Malo Gusto's cross found the head of Armando Broja to open the scoring.
The west London side were then able to turn the screw and find more of their verve as Thiago Silva headed in from Cole Palmer's corner to truly lift the stadium. Three minutes later it was 3-0 with a fantastic free kick from Raheem Sterling. Enzo Fernandez completed the scoring as the game petered out.
football.london rates Chelsea's performances from the win.
Djordje Petrovic — One wayward pass aside, the Serbian looked comfortable in the moments he was required. 6.
Alfie Gilchrist — The youngster made his full debut against Preston and did not look out of place. Liam Miller looked to test the development squad captain but he defended astutely and helped create one of the Blues' better first-half chances. 7.
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Axel Disasi — A few uncertain moments but generally solid as Chelsea earned a clean sheet. 5.
Levi Colwill — The Cobham product received a rare opportunity in the centre of defence and quickly showed his ability to step out with the ball in such a role. Caught on his heels in a couple of moments but produced some good challenges. 6.
Malo Gusto — The Frenchman was deployed on the left to start the match and showed some very deft touches on the ball to
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