Wesley Fofana’s header secured a much-needed win for Graham Potter to ease the pressure on his position as Chelsea manager.
Ahead of kick-off, Potter’s position looked insecure after a run of just one win in 11 matches.
However, Chelsea’s first goal in over 400 minutes gave the Blues a desperately needed three points and, at times, they showed they can play their way out of their bad run.
Joao Felix hit the bar but Georgino Rutter’s effort could have squirmed beyond Kepa Arrizabalaga late into the second half, but for a fortunate deflection.
Nizaar Kinsella was at Stamford Bridge witnessing a pivotal moment for the Blues manager.
Kepa Arrizabalaga - 6
The Chelsea goalkeeper had very little to do, mainly just claiming Leeds crosses that came in from corners and open play.
Wesley Fofana - 8
Wesley Fofana actually managed to score a goal and ended Chelsea’s 400+ minute goal drought. He rose highest to head in Ben Chilwell’s corner in the 53rd minute. A strong showing on the right side of defence, where he looked dangerous going forward at set plays and in open play.
Kalidou Koulibaly - 7
Mopped up a rare Fofana mistake early on and blocked a Brendan Aaronson shot that presented a real danger. Solid display in the middle of the back three.
Benoit Badiashile - 7
His good front-footed defending allowed Chelsea to win the ball high up the pitch, while his aerial presence helped minimise threat at set-pieces.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek - 6
Playing as a makeshift wing back, the England international had a quiet game but did create a chance for Sterling early in the second half.
Enzo Fernandez - 6
Displayed a wonderful range of passing as ever but without creating any chances. A Jorginho-esque display at the heart of Chelsea’s build up, but he was also a little unremarkable.
Mateo Kovacic - 6
Captaining his team, the midfielder offered higher energy than his midfield partner but took hold of the ball less. Helped control the game without offering much in attack.
Ben Chilwell - 7
Produced several dangerous crosses in open play in his favoured wing-back position. The Blues defender was also brilliant while taking corners, one leading to Fofana’s opening goal.
Joao Felix - 6
The loan signing from Atletico Madrid hit the bar through the best move of the game and he was unlucky not to score. At times, however, he was wasteful and was substituted in the 67th minute.
Kai Havertz - 4
Graham Potter continues to keep faith with Havertz even as he looks less and less likely to score. The Germany international missed a one-on-one, hitting his shot straight at Ilan Meslier.
Raheem Sterling - 6
Sterling created chances for others and had two good efforts of his own but couldn’t get his goal. Another promising display, but he has yet to reach his best level since his last injury. Taken off with Felix in the 67th minute.
Substitutes:
Conor Gallagher - 6
Made a good burst on the counter attack that almost led to a goal, played an unusual role protecting the midfield without the ball and joined Havertz up front when his team were in possession.
Denis Zakaria - 6
A functional cameo in the deepest position in Chelsea’s midfield.
Carney Chukwuemeka - 6
Joined Gallagher in attack on the break, but wasted his chance by losing balance. He was introduced ahead of new signing Mykhailo Mudryk.
Trevoh Chalobah - N/A
Noni Madueke - N/A
Subs: Aubameyang, Bettinelli, Mudryk, Zakaria, Ziyech
