Stoke v Chelsea player ratings

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After a miserable midweek defeat in the Capital One Cup, Chelsea looked back to their best against Stoke. Here’s how we rated the players in their 4-0 victory at the Britannia Stadium.

Petr Cech: 7
Produced a good save to deny Steven Nzonzi. He was a welcome sight on his return – and a timely one given his presence against Stoke’s aerial threat.

Cesar Azpilicueta: 7
Effective at both ends of the pitch, not least when crossing for the opening goal and doing enough to put off Kenwyne Jones when the striker had a sight of goal in the first half. Was relieved though when he brought down Matthew Etherington in the box and was saved by the fact that the winger was offside.

David Luiz: 7
Back in the centre of defence and did well in the type of game he may have been found wanting in a year or so ago.

Branislav Ivanovic: 7
Bounced back well from his absolute shocker against Swansea in midweek. Strong and solid at the back.

Ashley Cole: 7
Was able to get forward more than he generally has done since Rafael Benitez’s appointment.

Ramires: 7
Did well in the centre of midfield. Closed down effectively, enabling Frank Lampard to get forward.

Frank Lampard: 7
As well as his goal – a firmly struck penalty and his fifth goal in seven matches – his all-round performance yet again underlined his importance to the team. Could have scored at least one more as he was twice denied by the goalkeeper and would probably have netted had Jon Walters not got there first to head into his own net.

Eden Hazard: 8
Drifted in and out of the game but his overall display was excellent. Great to watch when on the ball and scored a cracking goal.

Juan Mata: 7
Not as rampant as he has been at times this season and lost possession occasionally but was still classy, bring others into play and causing Stoke problems with his movement.

Ryan Bertrand: 6
Asked to do a job for the team and was solid enough, but barely involved.

Demba Ba: 7
Didn’t manage to score but tested the keeper and also offered a physical presence, which Chelsea have lacked this season. It gave his team-mates an outlet and constantly occupied the Stoke defence, giving the Blues’ other attacking players space to exploit.

Fernando Torres: 6
Quiet after coming on for the final 19 minutes.

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