ALFIE GILCHRIST stole the show in Chelsea’s thumping 4-0 win over Preston North End in the FA Cup.
The youngster made his first start for the Blues as he looked to put a claim in for more game time under Mauricio Pochettino.
Alfie Gilchrist looked solid for Chelsea
Mykhailo Mudryk failed to shine against Preston North End
On the flip side, Mykhailo Mudryk put in another anonymous display as he was subbed on the hour mark.
Few Chelsea players managed to impress during a drab first-half that ended goalless at Stamford Bridge.
The second half was much better for the hosts as Armando Broja headed them into the lead.
Thiago Silva and Raheem Sterling then got in on the act as they made it 3-0.
Enzo Fernandez wrapped up the scoring as he bagged in the 85th minute to help the club into the fourth round of the FA Cup.
SunSports' Jon West has given his ratings of the Chelsea players.
Djordje Petrovic 7
Looks the part. Made saves look comfortable and excellent at coming out to catch. Spectator for much of the second period.
Alfie Gilchrist 7
Home fans sang youth product's name in impressive first start. Calm on ball and almost set Raheem Sterling up for a goal too.
Axel Disasi 6
Solid enough display at the back against a Championship forward pairing. Didn't have much to do after the Preston dam finally broke.
Levi Colwill 6
Switched to the centre after Prem struggles on the left – and given armband. Looked happier there initially before being caught out a couple of times.
Malo Gusto 7
Malo Gusto bagged an assist
Chelsea's Mr Versatile in defence was switched to the left and supplied the cross for Armando Broja's headed opener. Might have scored himself too.
Moises Caicedo 5
How is this guy English football's most expensive player? Only stats chart he's likely to top is most fouls committed. Bang average in possession too.
Enzo Fernandez 7
Tough tackles and defence-splitting passes from the World Cup winner. Saw first-half header saved and late offside goal given by VAR.
Raheem Sterling 7
Raheem Sterling scored a brilliant free kick
Threat from right in first outing since the loss at Wolves before Christmas. Had a few chances before the break – and took his free-kick goal superbly later on.
Cole Palmer 6
Laughed after missing sitter, which shows he's not lacking in confidence. Not his most stellar display, not that it mattered in the end.
Mykhailo Mudryk 4
Another anonymous performance from the £88million man. Known as 'Misha' to his friends, 'Missing' to Chelsea supporters. Didn't get a great deal of help though.
Armando Broja 7
Armando Broja netted the opener
Needed a goal – and got one. Worked hard with his back to goal mainly before the service he craved finally arrived. Great header and was a whisker away from a second too.
Subs
Thiago Silva (on for Gilchrist, 61) 7
Veteran defender scored with (probably) his first touch.
Noni Madueke (on for Mudryk, 61) 6
Quick feet on the right from England Under-21 man.
Deivid Washington (on for Broja, 76) 3
Almost scored right away but not much after that.
Conor Gallagher (on for Palmer, 76) 3
Not much for the England man to do apart from keep the ball moving.
Michael Golding (on for Fernandez,) 2
Midfielder, 17, on for late debut at 4-0. Could have scored too!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use compression gear while playing football?
Compression gear such as leggings or shorts can be beneficial to football players. They may increase blood flow, reduce fatigue and help speed recovery after a game or training. The tightly fitting material is also believed to provide a degree of muscle stabilization. It is up to the individual whether they choose compression gear. Comfort should always be the first consideration when choosing this equipment.
What is the most important equipment for football?
Basic football equipment includes a shirt or jersey, shorts and socks, shinguards, and football boots or cleats. Goalkeepers require special gloves and sometimes even padded clothing in order to protect themselves during dives or jumps. For safety reasons and to ensure that the rules are followed, it is important for players to dress appropriately.
What are the best gloves to protect and grip goalkeepers?
Goalkeeper gloves featuring a palm made of latex offer the best performance under different conditions. The thickness and density of the latex can vary to balance grip and durability. Gloves featuring finger protection systems such as spines, stiffening or other materials can help to prevent hyperextension injuries. It is important that the gloves are comfortable and fit properly to ensure that goalkeepers can perform at their highest level.
Can the choice in socks have an impact on a football player’s performance?
Absolutely. Football socks are made to protect and cushion the feet of players during intense games. They prevent blisters, keep the shinguards firmly in place, and cushion the feet. A good pair of football socks can improve a player’s comfort, which can indirectly influence their performance on the pitch.
How do I choose the right football boots for my playing surface?
You should choose the correct football boots depending on the type and surface of the pitch you will be playing. For natural grass pitches, cleats with metal studs (FG – firm ground) are advisable as they provide traction and stability. For artificial grass, boots with multiple small rubber spikes (AG- artificial grass) and a flat bottom (TF- turf) offer traction and reduce the chance of injury. Indoor courts need non-marking rubber shoes to avoid damaging the surface and to provide adequate movement.
Statistics
- Over 90% of professional football players wear boots with synthetic uppers for better performance and durability.
- Globally, the demand for lightweight football cleats has risen by about 30% in the past decade, reflecting changes in player preferences and playing styles.
- Approximately 40% of amateur football players wear boots that are not properly fitted, increasing the risk of foot injuries.
- Data shows that thermo-bonded footballs, known for their consistent performance, are preferred by 65% of professional football clubs for matches.
- Research has indicated that around 60% of football-related ankle injuries could be mitigated with the correct choice of footwear.
External Links
fifa.com
footy.com
podiatrytoday.com
puma.com
prodirectsoccer.com
How To
How To Select the Perfect Football for Your Game
In order to choose the best football, it is important to take into account several factors. Match footballs used in professional matches are designed with precision, durability, consistent flight, and other features. Training footballs are designed to be durable and withstand repeated usage. To develop their skills, younger players should use balls that are lighter, and corresponding with their age groups, ranging from sizes 3 to 5. Balls marked “AST”, which are resistant to abrasion and will last longer, should be used on artificial turf.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.sportingexcitement.com/football/premier-league/roberto-firminos-return-to-premier-league-hindered-by-high-wage-demands/
