Three key passes, four ground duels won: Chelsea player who didn't score last night gave Maresca real food for thought
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Chelsea maintained their perfect start to life in the Europa Conference League as they ran out 8-0 winners over FC Noah at Stamford Bridge on Thursday night.
The Blues once again showed their class in the competition as six different scorers put the Armenian outfit to the sword in West London.
Tosin Adarabioyo opened the scoring for Chelsea on 12 minutes before Marc Guiu added a second moments later and Axel Disasi made it three in the 18th minute.
Joao Felix then added a fourth on 21 minutes, Mykhaylo Mudryk struck in the 39th minute and Felix got his second of the game two minutes later for a 6-0 half-time lead.
Although Chelsea took their foot off the gas somewhat in the second half, Christopher Nkunku then bagged a brace of his own, his second coming from the penalty spot.
While many Blues players helped themselves to at least one goal in the game, one who failed to get on the scoresheet nonetheless sent a clear message to Enzo Maresca.
READ MORE: Ian Wright names the centre-back who would make Enzo Maresca's Chelsea simply incredible
Enzo Fernandez shines with assist hat-trick in Chelsea rout of Noah
The player in question is Enzo Fernandez, who provided the perfect response to dropping out of the Chelsea starting XI.
Fernandez only played the first half, but in that time he provided a hat-trick of assists by the 21-minute mark of the match.
As per Sofascore, the Argentina international – who wore the captain’s armband – made three key passes, had one shot on target, completed one dribble, and won four ground duels.
Fernandez’s accuracy also stood out as he completed 90 percent of his passes and was also spot on with his two long ball attempts and his two crosses.
The 22-year-old even chipped in defensively, making three tackles and an interception.
What the media said about Enzo Fernandez display
The Express gave Fernandez an 8 out of 10 and wrote: “Fernandez has lost his regular starting role in the Premier League to Romeo Lavia and provided a positive response to being dropped.
“The Argentine departed the game at half-time with three assists and Maresca has been sent a clear message that the midfield star wants his place back.”
Likewise, Goal.com gave him 8 out of 10 and wrote: “Under pressure to shine and he did enough in just 45 minutes.
“His set-piece deliveries were deadly and his passing was excellent. Simply too good for Noah.”
Fernandez will hope to return to the Chelsea starting XI for their final Premier League match before the international break, with Arsenal coming to Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Chelsea certainly have plenty of superb young players in their ranks with bright futures ahead.
