Chelsea player ratings vs Manchester United: Moises Caicedo stands out again as Reece James makes difference | OneFootball

Blues came through tense night at Stamford Bridge to pick up three crucial points

Midfield general: Moises Caicedo shone for Chelsea in another strong display

Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Chelsea held their nerve to beat Manchester United 1-0 and take another step towards Champions League qualification.

Victory on the final day against Nottingham Forest will see the Blues return to Europe’s top table, after Marc Cucurella’s second-half header proved enough against United.

Noni Madueke wasted a big chance to double the lead, meaning Chelsea had to come through some nervy late moments.

Here’s how Enzo Maresca’s side rated at Stamford Bridge...

Robert Sanchez 6

Got the crowd on his back with customary iffy pass but parried smartly from Amad Diallo late on.

Reece James 8

So close to a brilliant opener when half-volley struck the post. Injury scare before half-time but able to carry on and produced wonderful bit of skill for the crucial assist.

Tosin Adarabioyo 7

Surprise pick ahead of Trevor Chalobah but comfortably won physical battle against Hojlund.

Levi Colwill 6

Covered well to keep Amad quiet.

Marc Cucurella 8

How many times is that now? Came up with a massive goal just as his side seemed to have run out of ideas.

Chelsea’s full-backs delivered the winning moment

Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Moises Caicedo 8

Chelsea’s standout player. So powerful in the middle of the park. As his manager said on Thursday, deserves to be in the Champions League.

Enzo Fernandez 6

Aggressive as ever in midfield but quiet in terms of influence in possession.

Pedro Neto 6

Took a while to get into the game but emerged as the likeliest threat. Surprise he didn't get a run through the middle at some stage.

Cole Palmer 6

One sensational ball for Madueke opening but then faded. A change of boots at half-time failed to work the oracle. Booked.

Noni Madueke 5

Missed a superb early chance when steering over, then another that would have killed the game moments after Cucurella goal.

Tyrique George 5

Asked to lead the line on first league start but task was a thankless one against United’s back-three. Thought he’d won a penalty from Onana but overturned by VAR.

Substitutes

Romeo Lavia (George 81’) N/A

Malo Gusto (Neto 90’) N/A