Chelsea player ratings: Jorginho has a howler in Everton defeat but Loftus-Cheek stakes a claim for his future

CHELSEA’S mixed form continued as they fell to a 1-0 defeat at relegation-threatened Everton.

Richarlison scored the only goal of the game as Thomas Tuchel’s Blues struggled for chances yet again.

AP

The result means Chelsea still face a nervous wait to confirm their top four status.

But who was the Blues’ best player at Goodison Park?

And did anyone have a game to forget?

Here, SunSport’s Anthony Chapman delivers his Chelsea player ratings against Everton…

EDOUARD MENDY – 6

Not much to do between the sticks, which was a relief to Chelsea fans after some recent mistakes.

But made a few decent stops and his tidy passes kept the Blues flowing when they needed to build up from the back.

CESAR AZPILICUETA – 5

Captain wore heart on his sleeve and refused to let Everton get away with their rough tactics.

But his boiling blood resulted in a silly mistake straight after the break, allowing Richarlison to score with an easy finish.

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THIAGO SILVA – 6

A natural leader in defence, Silva looked typically calm and composed.

Wasn’t as effective as usual when pushing forward but was a reliable presence as always.

ANTONIO RUDIGER – 5

Very quiet game by the German’s standards – having also kept a low profile in Thursday’s 1-1 draw at Man Utd.

And Chelsea fans will be hoping Rudiger hasn’t lost his head already, with reports claiming he’s signed a four-year deal to join Real Madrid this summer.

REECE JAMES – 6

Stunning performance against United was always going to be hard to follow, especially following more injury setbacks.

James got himself in good positions down the right, and his ability to cut in also caused Everton headaches through the game.

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Jorginho was subbed at half-time after a shocking performance[/caption]

JORGINHO – 4

The Italian’s best days might be behind him after another subdued midfield effort.

Outshone by his partner, Jorginho lacked any real cutting threat and was hooked at half-time.

RUBEN LOFTUS-CHEEK – 7

Getting better with each game, driving from midfield and showing neat foot work.

Knows he’s fighting for his Chelsea future and delivered another performance that is sure to give Thomas Tuchel plenty of thought this summer.

MARCOS ALONSO – 6

Took up clever positions in the final third to provide attacking threat but was a bit too lax while retreating.

Is now a reported target for Barcelona and Blues supporters will be hoping he can maintain his focus until the end of term.

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Mason Mount was one of Chelsea’s better players at Goodison Park[/caption]

MASON MOUNT – 7

One of Chelsea’s sharper players today, Mount was relentless with his pressing.

Had Chelsea’s best chance with fearsome shot that incredibly struck BOTH posts.

KAI HAVERTZ – 6

Goal-scoring touch has deserted the German in recent games.

Lacked the physicality against Everton’s giant centre-backs but did well in drifting out to create space for teammates.

TIMO WERNER – 5

Lots of running from the wide-man – but to nowhere in particular.

Another frustrating performance for Werner, who could not find a way past Everton’s makeshift wing-back Alex Iwobi.

SUBS

Mateo Kovacic (for Jorginho, 45’) – 6

Not quite the inspiration Thomas Tuchel was looking for as Chelsea conceded just moments after Kovacic came on.

But he was a good deal better than the man he replaced and attempted to inject more life into Chelsea’s midfield.

Hakim Ziyech (for Timo Werner, 70’) – N/A

Christian Pulisic (for Cesar Azpilicueta, 70’) – N/A