CHELSEA faced their second straight loss in a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Ipswich this evening.

Enzo Maresca’s squad entered the match seeking to bounce back from their 2-1 defeat at home to Fulham on Boxing Day.

4

The Blues were hopeful, as the Tractor Boys were still in search of their first home win this season.

However, Liam Delap’s controversial penalty in the 12th minute gave the home team an unexpected lead, followed by a second goal from former Chelsea player Omari Hutchinson, further complicating Chelsea’s situation.

On a discouraging evening for Chelsea, SunSport’s Jordan Davies assesses each player’s contributions.

FILIP JORGENSEN – 6

His first move was an unnecessary penalty after clumsily challenging Delap.

He later made several good saves, but that initial blunder was detrimental.

AXEL DISASI – 4

Had minimal influence until he made a decent pass early in the second half to set up Madueke.

However, this was overshadowed by a defensive mistake that allowed the hosts to score their second goal.

TOSIN ADARABIOYO – 5

He struggled with Delap’s strength and speed the entire match, appearing reluctant to challenge him.

BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS

LEVI COLWILL – 6

Looked improved alongside a dependable defensive partner, which was lacking in this match.

Not his best performance, but not his worst either.

Enzo Maresca gives blunt two-word response when asked about Noni Madueke’s Chelsea exclusion

MARC CUCURELLA – 5

Had a shaky clearance early on that almost allowed Delap to score again and frequently found himself out of position during Ipswich’s counterattacks.

Struggled in attacking situations.

ENZO FERNANDEZ – 6

Showed a blend of good and poor moments, managing to find space but also getting overpowered at times.

MOISES CAICEDO – 6

Missed a great chance from the edge of the box, sending it over the bar.

Handled the game decently from a deeper position at times.

4

NONI MADUEKE – 7

He was crucial in Chelsea’s offensive plays, challenging defenders and was unlucky not to score in the first half.

He combined effectively with Palmer and Enzo.

COLE PALMER – 8

A standout performer. His cleverly taken free-kick hit the post, and his assistable cross to Joao Felix would have led to a goal but for an offside call.

He also had a brilliant curled shot saved and certainly did not deserve to be on the losing team. The best player on the pitch by a considerable margin.

4

JOAO FELIX – 6

Though it may seem harsh, he should have been onside for what could have been an equalizer from Palmer’s excellent cross.

He also had a header cleared off the line shortly after the break.

CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU – 5

A largely invisible first half was followed by a lack of impact in the second, resulting in his substitution just after the hour mark.

It feels like he wasted a significant opportunity given to him by Maresca to make an impact.

4

Nicolas Jackson (for Felix, 55) – 6

Missed a glaring one-on-one chance but was spared by a late offside flag.

Jadon Sancho – (for Nkunku, 65) – 6

Made little impact, as the match was largely settled by the time he came on.

Malo Gusto (for Disasi, 77) – 6

Came on for Disasi and made his presence felt with a late confrontation with Davis.

Pedro Neto (for Madueke, 77) – 5

Injected some energy but let himself down by falling easily after a slight touch from Kalvin Phillips.