3️⃣ points as Mount and Giroud make the difference for Chelsea | OneFootball

Chelsea secured progression into the Champions League knockout stages after beating Rennes 2-1 at Roazhon Park.

Goals from Callum Hudson-Odoi and Olivier Giroud were enough to cancel out a deserved Sehrou Guirassy equaliser.

Here are three points we took from the game …

Mounting reputation

Mason Mount has taken on significant criticism this term, but his excellent start to the season was highlighted once again with an imperious performance against Rennes.

Having been moved back into a number eight role by Frank Lampard, he was the link between defence and attack, highlighting tenacity and energy as well as vision and technique.

Mount completed three take ons, three tackles, created two chances and laid on a gorgeous assist for Callum Hudson-Odoi to open the scoring – his first in Champions League football.

Criticise him all you like. But he keeps playing, Lampard keeps selecting him and for good reason too.

Giroud for thought

Olivier Giroud made his feelings known that his current Chelsea situation – third choice striker behind Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham – isn’t working for him.

But Lampard insists the Frenchman remains an ‘important’ part of his squad, and that was clear against Rennes after he secured victory with a brilliant late header.

It’s clear that a January departure looks likely but with the Blues looking good in the league and strong in Europe, will they let him leave?

Having made just one start this season, Giroud will be pushing for an exit ahead of his last major international tournament this summer.

All eyes on him

It would’ve been easy to fade against a midfield of Jorginho, Mateo Kovačić and Mason Mount, but Eduardo Camavinga showed why he is so highly rated.

Not everything came off for the teenager, but his willingness to take responsibility on the ball and look for progressive passes impressed throughout the 90 minutes.

Clubs across Europe were pining for his signature this summer but staying at Rennes, where he can play a key role in their Champions League campaign was the best for him.

One thing is for sure; this boy is destined for greatness.