Bournemouth 4-1

Independent:

Bournemouth 1 Chelsea 4

Eden Hazard finally ends goal drought with brace

Ian Baker Dean Court

Eden Hazard will surrender his PFA Player of the Year trophy on Sunday but at last he produced a performance to be proud of in an abysmal season personally and for Chelsea.

The Belgian ended a run of 355 days and 29 Barclays Premier League games without a goal with a brace as the West Londoners easily won at Bournemouth.

It was a game that offered glimpses that Chelsea can return to their title-winning best even though it was a largely dead rubber fixture with neither side having much to play for, something that will have seemed inexplicable back in August.

Yet Chelsea supporters were quick to show their frustrations despite a success. The prospect of London rivals Tottenham Hotspur winning the league is unthinkable. Their next game comes against Mauricio Pochettino’s side a week on Monday. “You better beat f***ing Tottenham,” came the cry from the frustrated away fans at Dean Court.

Chelsea are a far better side than the one that were beaten at home by Bournemouth in the dying days of Jose Mourinho’s reign and always in control of this contest.

They took the lead with five minutes on the clock with a free-flowing move involving Hazard, Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas who played in Pedro to convert.

But Bournemouth were arguably the better side in the first half after that as Josh King shot over the bar from a well-worked Charlie Daniels while from another well-thought out delivery Steven Cook also missed the target from six yards.

Lewis Grabban’s shot from an angle was then pushed away by Asmir Begovic while King could only head straight at the Chelsea goalkeeper from Simon Francis’ cross and Grabban then glanced off target from a Junior Stanislas delivery.

But finally Hazard was able to celebrate scoring as he stroke home low from 20 yards after the impressive Fabregas’ flick had fallen straight to him.


John Terry was watching on from the directors box having a managerial work placement and it would be interesting to hear the Chelsea captain’s thoughts as his side conceded less than two minutes later.

Tommy Elphick’s header bounced down and beat Begovic via the post from Francis’ delivery and suddenly the hosts could have levelled before the break as Grabban was denied with a powerful shot before Stanilas’ shot just went over the crossbar after a well-worked move.

Bournemouth though could not build on their promising half and even though Callum Wilson and Benik Afobe came on as substitutes it was Chelsea who took control.

They scored a third on 70 minutes as Willian cleverly converted after Fabregas’ through ball had given the midfielder a third assist of the match.


Hazard was only expected to play a maximum of an hour on his return from a hip injury but ended up playing the whole 90 and scored a second in stoppage time from only yards out after Nemanja Matic had done the hard work to complete an emphatic win.

“We don’t want the season to fade away,” said interim manager Guus Hiddink. “We worked with Eden the last 10 days and we were looking at his movement and he enjoyed it. He was light in his movement. We talked about 45 minutes but in the end he was enjoying it so much he could enjoy the whole game.

“Cesc was enjoying it very much and he was one of the few players who have this vision. He knows he can execute what he is thinking and it was one of his best games.”

“I thought it was an even game, especially in the first half,” said Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe. “The only difference was the way they finished and we learned some harsh lessons.”


Bournemouth (4-2-3-1): Boruc; Francis, Cook, Elphick, Daniels; Gosling, Surman; Stanislas (Ritchie 78), Grabban (Afobe 63), Pugh; King (Wilson 63). Subs: Federici, MacDonald, Wiggins, O’Kane.

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Begovic; Azpilicueta, Ivanovic, Mikel, Rahman; Matic, Fabregas; Pedro, Willian (Loftus-Cheek 83), Hazard; Costa. Subs: Amelia, Falcao, Pato, Traore, Kenedy, Miazga.


Referee: Roger East

Attendance: 11,365


Man of the Match: Cesc Fabregas


================


Observer:

Eden Hazard ends league goal drought as Chelsea beat Bournemouth

AFC Bournemouth 1 - 4 Chelsea

James Riach at the Vitality Stadium


There was to be no Bournemouth double over Chelsea. In December Eddie Howe’s side produced one of the results of the season at Stamford Bridge during the last days of José Mourinho’s reign but this was a performance more like the champions of old, led by Cesc Fábregas and Eden Hazard.

Fábregas was superb, elaborate flicks combined with clinical passing to cut Bournemouth open time and again. Howe’s men showed attacking intent themselves but, in doing so, ceded space in their own half, which Chelsea exploited. Pedro opened the scoring before Hazard and Willian also capitalised on Fábregas assists, rendering Tommy Elphick’s header immaterial.

Hazard added another late on and these were his first Premier League goals since May 2015. Some drought for last season’s PFA Player of the Year but, though there were still signs of rust after five games out, this was a vastly improved display compared to some this season.

Yet it was Fábregas who ran the show. Guus Hiddink, the interim Chelsea coach, said of the Spaniard: “He was enjoying it very much, he’s one of the few players who has this vision. He knows when he’s on the ball that he can execute what he is thinking and creating, we know when he’s on the ball that we need players running.

“There were some decent games but this one was one of his best. I like it when they get the camera and attention but these players can play like that when there is good balance around him. We made some little positional changes at half-time and from there on I think we controlled and were very dominant. It was good to see the players enjoying playing and looking for the attack.”

Chelsea play Tottenham next and the away fans voiced their desire to end Spurs’ tilt at the league title. Mikel John Obi started in central defence here alongside Branislav Ivanovic, with Hazard making his first appearance since the Champions League defeat at home to Paris Saint-Germain. The Belgian was welcomed into the game early on by a thudding challenge from Lewis Grabban but after wincing and clutching his leg, Hazard picked himself off the turf and went on to have a decisive impact.

First, though, Pedro did. Bournemouth had made an energetic start to the match and the left-back Charlie Daniels was advancing high. However, after Daniels’ low cross into the opposition penalty area was cleared, he was caught out. Chelsea swiftly broke and, following a precise ball from Fábregas, Pedro found space cutting inside from the right and demonstrated a fine touch and finish.

Bournemouth have conceded many early goals this season and tried to respond immediately. Josh King shot over the crossbar from Daniels’ corner before Steve Cook squandered an excellent chance. Asmir Begovic – deputising for the suspended Thibaut Courtois – could only palm a corner tamely into Cook’s path, but the defender made a hash of his effort and sliced over.

Soon, Chelsea had two. Hazard, who has endured a largely torrid, injury-beset campaign, ran inside and was laid off following a deft flick from Fábregas. Space opened up and he fired through the legs of Elphick and in from 25 yards.

At that stage it seemed Bournemouth were in for a torturous afternoon, yet they clawed their way back into the game moments later. A corner was taken short to Francis and his cross found the head of Elphick, who made just enough contact to guide the ball past Begovic.

Unfortunately for Bournemouth, that was as good as it got. With the exception of a Junior Stanislas shot that fizzed wide in the 66th minute, they could not create the same attacking verve they had previously shown.

And so Chelsea ensured victory with 20 minutes remaining, Willian found by Fábregas once more and finishing coolly past Artur Boruc, before Hazard scored his second in injury time. Nemanja Matic played a one-two with Fábregas and pulled the ball back for Hazard to finish with ease.

Howe said: “A number of their players played at a high level today, Fabregas, Hazard, Willian, Costa. You have to admire their quality. We’re learning all the time and that’s key for us. We’re still finding our feet at this level and learning some harsh lessons.”

Match rating: 8/10



====================



Telegraph:

Bournemouth 1 Chelsea 4: Fabregas and Hazard find their form at last

Tom Prentki, vitality stadium


Cesc Fabregas’s brilliant performance had the groundlings purring as he lifted Chelsea into the top half of the Premier League.

“He was enjoying it very much and he’s one of the few players who has this vision – he knows what he is thinking and what he is creating,” said manager Gus Hiddink of Fabregas’ contribution.

Eden Hazard was a more than able understudy to the Spanish protagonist, scoring his first goals since last March as he looked like something resembling his best, drifting into the spaces behind Diego Costa and wreaking havoc.

“He enjoyed it too, he was light in his movement,” said Hiddink. “We talked about him maybe playing 45 minutes but he was enjoying it so much that he could play the whole match.”


The lack of pressure on either side made for an open and entertaining game, though Bournemouth’s fans have now seen their team humbled by Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea in successive home matches.

Cherries’ chairman Jeff Mostyn described the visits of those Premier League giants as “like having three buses all arrive at the same time, having waited 120 years for the first one”.

“Our run in is so tough and we’re learning all the time,” said Eddie Howe. “That’s key for us. Their attitude and approach to the game was spot on, that’s why it ended up being a really good game.”


Hiddink, too, was delighted with his team’s mentality, given how little there is left riding on results in the final games of a forgettable season at Stamford Bridge. “They responded very well. It was not a summer evening game, it was a very intense game.”

Pedro opened the scoring for the Blues, latching on to a perfectly-judged pass from his ex-Barcelona team-mate Fabregas, to lift the ball over the stricken Artur Boruc.  It was 2-0 when Willian and Fabregas exchanged passes to free up Hazard 20 yards from goal and the Belgian fired low into the bottom-left corner.

Bournemouth were creating chances of their own and they scored through their captain, Tommy Elphick, as he beat make-shift cente-back John Obi Mikel to Simon Francis’ deep cross to head in.


Fabregas, who appeared to have the ball attached to him by a string, weighted a perfect ball down the right channel to Willian, who again lifted the ball over Boruc, in a carbon copy of the first goal.

Chelsea scored with all four of their shots on target as Hazard added his second, tapping in from Nemanja Matic’s low cross after yet more good work from Fabregas.



======================

Mail:


Bournemouth 1-4 Chelsea:

Eden Hazard scores his first Premier League goals of the season as Blues break losing streak

By Riath Al-samarrai for The Mail on Sunday


Eden Hazard did what he used to do so often and Cesc Fabregas was exquisite, a master craftsman of vision and touch. At times it was possible to remember when Chelsea didn’t play dead rubbers in April.
This was frequently brilliant and occasionally compelling, with no two men more impressive than Hazard, who scored twice, and Fabregas, the puppet master with three extremely good assists.

And yet they are also the two men who, arguably, have been the most underwhelming in this weakest of title defences. With the trophy long gone, why has it taken so long to see their tremendous talents?

That might well be the frustration for those who care about such things. In Hazard’s case, the slump is best illustrated by the fact he had not scored a Premier League goal since last May.
With the count reaching 355 days, last year’s PFA Player of the Year got not one but two goals in his first game for six weeks following a hip injury.
As for Fabregas, a player of such gifts has been damned and slammed in this strange season for the number of games in which he coasted. Here, he surged. It was a stunning performance.

He made each of the first three goals for Pedro, Hazard and Willian before playing a part in Hazard’s second at the death. As they went in, Chelsea’s supporters sang: ‘You better beat Tottenham.’ Those London rivals are next up for Guus Hiddink’s side, who find themselves on the outside looking in as the trophies are decided.
Hiddink said: ‘Of course we want to win that game. We have nothing at stake but we as Chelsea don’t want the season to fade away.’

If Hazard and Fabregas retain this form, Chelsea might yet be relevant to the table, considering they not only face Spurs but Leicester as well in their final four games. Hiddink said: ‘Cesc was enjoying it very much. He is very fast (mentally), one of the few who knows he can execute what he is thinking. Not many can.
‘He has had some decent games (since Hiddink came in) but this one was one of his best.’

The Dutchman added: ‘Hazard was light in his movement again. We had talked about playing 45 minutes or more but he was enjoying it so much that he played the whole game. That is a sign of the good spirit of his.’

As far as signs go, this scoreline may be a trifle misleading. Having lost their previous two, Chelsea again looked shaky at times, especially in the first half when every cross they faced looked like yielding a goal. Had Bournemouth taken more of their many chances, it might have been level at the break and with it a different conclusion.

Steve Cook was guilty of one particularly bad miss and Lewis Grabban a couple more against a makeshift and wobbly defence.
‘We were terrific in the first half,’ said Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe. ‘But they took their chances and we didn’t.’

Crucially, Chelsea also had Fabregas. He made the opener by leading a counter-attack after five minutes, taking possession near halfway and surging through the middle before passing out to the right in the space between left-back Charlie Daniels and Cook at centre-half.
Pedro took a touch and waited for goalkeeper Artur Boruc to go to ground before chipping his finish. An excellent goal.

Fabregas’s contribution to Chelsea’s second, half an hour later, was even better. Willian, so reliable in an unreliable side this season, played in the Spaniard whose little flick with his heel took Dan Gosling out of play and set up Hazard. The Belgian playmaker finished well from outside the area. Chelsea’s defence, with John Mikel Obi deployed at centre-half, was not nearly so effective as their attack. That was demonstrated with Bournemouth’s goal, scored by Tommy Elphick two minutes later.
A Marc Pugh cross caused trouble for Chelsea keeper Asmir Begovic, who nudged the delivery over the bar. Andrew Surman played the corner short to Simon Francis and Elphick was free to head past Begovic.
Fabregas got his third assist after the break with another lovely pass between Cook and Daniels. This time Willian was waiting and again Boruc was chipped.


The fourth, in stoppage time, was no less aesthetic. Hazard started the move on the left and Fabregas laid off to Nemanja Matic, who pulled back for Hazard to finish. Blink and you would have missed it.
Brilliant football from a team and individuals who used to do it so often. If they play like this against Tottenham on Monday week, Chelsea might yet have a say in the title race.


Bournemouth (4-4-2): Boruc 6; Francis 7, Elphick 7, Cook 5, Daniels 5.5; Stanislas 6.5 (Ritchie 78), Surman 6.5, Gosling 6, Pugh 6.5; Grabban 5.5 (Afobe 63, 6), King 6.5 (Wilson 63, 6)

Subs not used: Federici, Wiggins, MacDonald, O'Kane
Goals: Elphick 37

Booked: Ritchie

Manager: Eddie Howe

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Begovic 5; Azpilicueta 5.5, Mikel 6, Ivanovic 6, Baba 5; Matic 7, Fabregas 9; Pedro 7, Willian 7.5 (Loftus-Cheek 83), Hazard 8; Costa 6

Subs not used: Amelia, Miazga, Kenedy, Traore, Pato, Falcao

Goals: Pedro 5, Hazard 35, Willian 71, Hazard 90+1

Manager: Guus Hiddink

Referee: Roger East 6.5

MOM: Cesc Fabregas

Att: 11,365



=========================


Mirror:

Bournemouth 1-4 Chelsea: Cesc Fabregas stars as Eden Hazard returns with a brace

BY ADRIAN KAJUMBA


The Belgian scored his first goals from open play in over a year but it was his Spanish teammate who stole the show with a virtuoso midfield display

Cesc Fabregas and Eden Hazard inspired Chelsea to a comfortable victory at Bournemouth.

Fabregas set Chelsea's first three goals and Hazard scored twice as the Blues cruised to a 4-1 win at the Vitality Stadium.


Bournemouth, who stunned Chelsea 1-0 at Stamford Bridge in December, started well.

But they fell behind after five minutes when Pedro finished off swift Chelsea counter-attack involving Eden Hazard, Diego Costa and Fabregas.

Fabregas then teed up Hazard to fire in Chelsea's second from 20 yards on 34 minutes with a clever back-heel.

Bournemouth hit back with an instant reply two minutes later when Tommy Elphick headed in Simon Francis's cross to make it 2-1.

But Willian, from another Fabregas pass, and Hazard, from Nemanja Matic's cross, wrapped up Chelsea's win with second half goals..


Fabulous Fabregas

Cesc Fabregas has remembered how to play football again after admitting this week that he forgot in the final months of Jose Mourinho's reign.

He put on a midfield masterclass against Bournemouth. His passing was excellent and he set up three of Chelsea's four goals.

His return to form has come too late for Chelsea as their season is over but is good news for Spain ahead of the Euros.


Begovic audition

If Asmir Begovic has two games to prove he could replace Thibaut Courtois if the Belgian leaves, as has been suggested, this was not a good start.

The Bosnian – in for the banned Courtois - looked shaky all afternoon, especially with his kicking, and having made a meal of dealing with Marc Pugh's cross was then too slow to react and deal with Tommy Elphick's header which crept in off the post.


Drought over for Hazard

Eden Hazard marked his return from injury with a goal. Incredibly it was his first in the league all season, a stat that sums up the 2014/15 double player of the year's rapid decline.

Not only that, it was his first in open play for Chelsea for over a year.

His only other two Chelsea goals this season were a penalty at MK Dons and free-kick against Manchester City, both in the FA Cup.


Flexible Mikel

Jon Obi Mikel was an attacking midfielder in his early years before developing into a defensive midfielder in his senior career.

And he showed his versatility again by filling in as a centre-back against Bournemouth, filling in for the ill Gary Cahill.

He had a few awkward moments against tricky customers Joshua King and Lewis Grabban but some good ones too.


Bournemouth's survival

They are almost safe but Eddie Howe won't be satisfied a job very well done is done until it is mathematically confirmed.

After this defeat they are 11 points clear of the drop zone with three games to play.

They could still be caught by Sunderland who have five games to play.

It is unlikely but Howe won't be happy until survival is clinched and nor will he be by his side's form. This was a fourth defeat in five matches.



Player ratings


Bournemouth : Boruc 6; Francis 6, Elphick 7, Cook 7, Daniels 6; Surman 6, Gosling 6; Stanislas 6 (Ritchie 78, 6), Grabban 5 (Afobe 63, 6), Pugh 6; King 7 (Wilson 63, 5).

Unused : Federici, MacDonald, Wiggins, O'Kane.


Chelsea : Begovic 5; Azpilicueta 6, Ivanovic 6, Mikel 6, Rahman 5; Fabregas MOTM 9, Matic 6; Pedro 7, Willian 7 (Loftus-Cheek 83, 5), Hazard 7; Costa 6.

Unused : Amelia, Miazga, Kenedy, Traore, Pato, Falcao.



=====================


Express:


CESC FABREGAS turned in a mercurial midfield display to mastermind Chelsea’s victory over Bournemouth.

By PETER WHITE


Fabregas laid on three assists as Chelsea bounced back from two successive Premier League defeats

Even though Guus Hiddink’s side were far from their best at the back, Fabregas made up for the defensive shortcomings by producing a string of punishing passes and setting up three of his side’s goals.

Hiddink said: “Cesc was enjoying it very much. It was one of his best games. He is one of the few players who has such vision and can execute what he is thinking.”

Chelsea, with two-goal Eden Hazard back in their starting line-up after a five-match injury absence, soon showed their quality with a magnificent counter-attack that brought the opening goal.


Diego Costa played a precision pass upfield to Fabregas, whose crossfield ball found the unmarked Pedro and the little Spaniard raced in to clip his shot over the advancing Artur Boruc.

Chelsea struggled to reproduce that precision until the 34th minute, when they doubled their advantage.

The influential Fabregas picked out Hazard, who was allowed to cut in from the left and let fly with a low, 25-yard effort.

But Chelsea’s frailties at the back soon allowed Howe’s team to temporarily claw their way back into the game. Andrew Surman played a short corner to Simon Francis, whose hanging cross was met by Tommy Elphick’s header that bounced back off the pitch and in.


However, the quality of Chelsea, and inevitably Fabregas, shone through again on 71 minutes as they extended their lead.

Fabregas’ through ball was inch perfect for Willian to run on to and sublimely beat the onrushing Boruc.

And, in stoppage time. Fabregas fed Nemanja Matic to set up Hazard for a close-range fourth.

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe said “We did not have that clinical edge.”


BOURNEMOUTH: Boruc, Francis, Elphick, Cook, Daniels, Stanislas (Ritchie 78), Gosling, Surman, Pugh, King (Wilson 63), Grabban (Afobe 63).

CHELSEA: Begovic, Azpilicueta, Mikel, Ivanovic, Baba, Fabregas, Matic, Willian (Loftus-Cheek 83), Pedro, Hazard, Costa.

Referee: R East Attendance: 11,365


======================


Star:

Bournemouth 1 Chelsea 4: Blues cruise to victory on the south coast


CESC FABREGAS turned in a mercurial midfield display to mastermind Chelsea’s victory over Bournemouth as Eden Hazard scored his first Premier League goals of the season.

By Peter White


Even though Guus Hiddink’s side were far from their best at the back, with both John Terry and Gary Cahill absent, Fabregas made up for the defensive frailties by producing a string of punishing passes and setting up three of his side’s goals.

Chelsea boss Hiddink said: “Cesc was enjoying it very much. It was one of his best games. He is one of the few players who has such vision and can execute what he is thinking. When he is on the ball we need running players to make his fast vision play effective.

“I was very pleased with the performance, especially the second half. Bournemouth are very good at building up and creating from there.

“We wanted to win this game because we don’t want to let the season just fade away.”


But John Obi Mikel turned in a performance in defence that he will quickly want to forget, although he was no worse than striker Diego Costa who was totally anonymous throughout.

Chelsea’s travelling fans took time out to remind their team they ‘had better beat’ Tottenham in the upcoming Premier League clash, also making their feelings known they want Leicester to succeed them as champions.

Chelsea, with two-goal Hazard back in their starting line-up after a five-match absence through injury, looked surprised by Bournemouth’s high tempo start but soon showed their quality with a magnificent counter-attack that brought them the opening goal.

Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth side were firmly on the offensive for the first five minutes, with Junior

Stanislas and Simon Francis both making dangerous breaks down the right.

But then as another Cherries attack was broken up, the speed of Chelsea’s threat was breathtaking.


Costa played a precision pass upfield to Fabregas, whose crossfield ball found the unmarked Pedro and the little Spaniard raced in to clip his shot over the advancing Artur Boruc for his eighth Chelsea goal of the season.

Despite the early setback, Bournemouth stuck to their task with the pace of Joshua King and Lewis Grabban giving Chelsea plenty to think about.

And after King flashed a shot over from the edge of the area, the Cherries wasted a golden chance on 20 minutes.


Chelsea keeper Asmir Begovic, replacing the suspended Thibaut Courtois, flapped at a corner from Andrew Surman and the ball fell invitingly for Steve Cook, who hit a fierce volley just too high.

Chelsea continued to show neat build-up play through midfield but struggled to reproduce the precision that brought their early goal until the 34th minute when they doubled their advantage.

Fabregas picked out Hazard, who was allowed to cut in from the left and let fly with a low 25-yard effort that sneaked just inside Boruc’s post.


Chelsea’s frailties at the back soon allowed Howe’s team to temporarily claw their way back into the game.

Surman played a short corner to Francis whose hanging cross was met by Tommy Elphick’s header that bounced just inside the top corner, with Begovic and his defenders wondering how they had allowed it to happen.

However, the quality of Chelsea and Fabregas shone through again on 71 minutes as they extended their lead. Fabregas’ through-ball was inch-perfect for Willian to run on to and sublimely beat the onrushing Boruc.

And in stoppage time Fabregas fed Nemanja Matic to set up Hazard for a close-range fourth.


Cherries boss Howe said: “I thought the first half was even and we were terrific. The difference was how they took their goals; we did not have that clinical edge. In the second half they did very well and we struggled to get into our rhythm.

“Their attitude was spot on and you have to admire the quality they have. The last period of the game was difficult because of the way they counter-attacked. A number of their players played at a high level, they have some outstanding players.”

Man City 0-3

Independent:

Sergio Aguero hat-trick and Kevin De Bruyne brilliance sinks Blues

Chelsea 0 Manchester City 3

Tom Sheen


“My situation never changed... Please let me go.”

Those were the words of former Chelsea player Kevin De Bruyne this week when explaining his relationship with former manager Jose Mourinho and the reasons he was sold to Wolfsburg without ever making an impression at Stamford Bridge.

Sergio Aguero may have taken home the match ball after his hat-trick but it was De Bruyne who made the biggest impression in west London; unfortunately for watching Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich he was wearing Manchester City's alternative neon green rather than the royal blue of the home side.


Since being sold by Chelsea to Wolfsburg in 2014, De Bruyne has been named the most outstanding player in the Bundesliga and moved to the Etihad for a club record £58m. His absence from Manuel Pellegrini's team saw the visitors endure their darkest run of form this season, and his return has sparked the side back to life and into the semi-final of the Champions League.

At Stamford Bridge, De Bruyne was the most influential player on the pitch and it wasn't even close. He claimed an assist for the opener and produced a sublime, crucial touch in the build-up to Aguero's second.

Chelsea had more possession and Pedro, Willian and Ruben Loftus-Cheek furrowed at the other end, but De Bruyne was doing far more with far less as City played a brilliant counter-punching game.

It wasn't all plain sailing for the visitors, however. In what was a thrilling opening 10 minutes, both sides displayed the fatal flaw that has turned their Premier League campaigns into such disasters - teams with title aspirations can't afford to be so bad defensively.


It took only three minutes for the Chelsea guard to be breached, De Bruyne taking advantage of a sloppy Cesc Fabregas pass to cut-back to Aguero, who was only denied a goal thanks to a last-gasp block from Gary Cahill. Within 90 seconds De Bruyne had a shot saved by Thibaut Courtois.

Nicolas Otamendi completely misjudged a long ball towards Diego Costa but the returning striker couldn't quite get the ball under control. He managed to lay off to Pedro, whose goal-bound shot was blocked by a relieved Otamendi. Ruben Loftus-Cheek gave a sniff of his bright future with a sharp drive at goal after a superb turn beyond Otamendi, before Gary Cahill's half-volley looked to be heading in until Eliaquim Mangala headed over.

But it was De Bruyne who was in control, given free reign of Stamford Bridge in a manner he was never allowed when a player and here. He should've opened the scoring when a simple pass from Yaya Toure cut the defence in two, but aimed his shot straight at Courtois. Not long after, Samir Nasri was allowed to drift into the area but Courtois, again, did enough to keep it goalless. That resistance didn't last much longer.

The visitors had looked at their most potent on the counter and the goal was no different, coming from a Chelsea corner.  De Bruyne's one-two with Toure was slightly fortunate but by then he had sprung free. Powering down the right, he found Aguero who stepped inside and fired at goal, the ball deflecting off of Cahill to open the scoring.

The Blues came out with renewed purpose in the second half and it was the bright Loftus-Cheek who would have most pleased the Chelsea fans. The 20-year-old couldn't quite stretch far enough to prod home after good work by Pedro down the left, then failed to control a wild effort after showing great strength to muscle past Mangala.

But the vast gulf in quality between what Chelsea have and what they once had was soon on show. Costa was still claiming a penalty when the ball dropped at the feet of De Bruyne, who showed a deft touch to knock the ball past Cesar Azpilicueta. As with the first goal, it took less than 20 seconds for a Chelsea attack to finish with a Manchester City goal.

It would only get worse for Chelsea who were again sliced open by a rampaging Fernandinho. Courtois had no choice but to take down the midfielder and was sent off for his trouble; Aguero completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot.

Roman Abramovich, arms folded deep within each other and with an empty seat to his right, will know there is much work to do this summer.


Teams

Chelsea: Courtois, Azpilicueta, Ivanovic, Cahill, Rahman, Mikel (Begovic), Fabregas, Willian (Traore), Loftus-Cheek, Pedro (Kenedy), Costa

Manchester City: Hart, Zabaleta (Sagna), Otamendi, Mangala, Kolarov, Fernandinho, Toure, Navas, De Bruyne, Nasri (Delph), Aguero (Iheanacho)


Man of the match: Kevin De Bruyne (Man City)

Rating: 8/10

Referee: Mike Dean

Attendance: 41,212



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Observer:

Manchester City’s Sergio Agüero hits hat-trick as Chelsea’s Courtois sees red

Chelsea 0 - 3 Man City

Dominic Fifield at Stamford Bridge


Manchester City are finishing with a flourish. This was a comprehensive thrashing of a Chelsea side pining for the season to end, a humiliation imposed by Sergio Agüero’s hat-trick and inspired by the fluid invention and menace of Kevin De Bruyne, back in familiar territory and tormenting former team-mates. The hosts shuddered at the brutality of it all but when this City team click they can feel untouchable.

The frustration is that the charge is coming so late. A side and squad of this talent, capable of subjecting the faded champions to their first defeat here by three goals since Carlo Ancelotti’s team subsided to Sunderland in November 2010, should have made this title their own, for all the brilliance offered up by Leicester and Tottenham Hotspur above them and the injuries that have eaten at times into Manuel Pellegrini’s options.

That a three-match winning burst still leaves them 12 points from the summit damns management and playing staff but this was no time to complain. There was too much zip and pace to their performance in which to delight, with their attacking play irrepressible.

Agüero inevitably drew the focus with the sheer brilliance of his finishing, the hat-trick leaving him with 13 goals from his past 12 Premier League appearances and 21 in 26 for the campaign. He has achieved that tally in seven fewer league appearances than it has taken Jamie Vardy. Harry Kane has scored 22 over 33 games but, while both Englishmen have illuminated their respective teams’ campaigns, Agüero’s ruthless efficiency is eclipsed by none of his top-flight peers. In that context it is baffling he did not feature on the Professional Footballers’ Association six-man shortlist for the player of the year. “It’s very strange that Sergio has played here so many years and has not been [recognised as] the best player,” Pellegrini said. “I’m sure Sergio is the best striker in the league.”

Chelsea, shorn still of John Terry, could not cope with him. The Argentinian was for ever scuttling into space, unnerving his markers at will and finishing as crisply as ever, even if the supply line was key to his scoring. Samir Nasri enjoyed his best game of a season stunted by injury, while De Bruyne’s excellence had the locals chuntering in dismay that he was once one of their own. The Belgian had not previously returned to these parts since forcing through an £18m transfer to Wolfsburg, much to José Mourinho’s frustration, in January 2014. This was a display to justify the £55m price tag that accompanied his return to England, all clever movement and deceptive pace. Chelsea never came close to quelling his threat.


It was the 24-year-old whose burst beyond Branislav Ivanovic and cutback almost presented Agüero with a third-minute tap-in, and his run between Baba Rahman and César Azpilicueta on to Yaya Touré’s perfectly measured pass forced Thibaut Courtois to save smartly with his right leg. The goalkeeper did well to deny Nasri, too but would not see out the contest, dismissed for the second time this term, for a professional foul on Fernandinho – the Belgian will miss the games with Bournemouth and Tottenham – with Agüero duly completing his hat-trick from the spot. By then the contest had long felt settled, the glum look on Roman Abramovich’s face as he played idly with his mobile phone up in his executive box summing up the local mood. This season cannot end soon enough.

Mismatches like this expose the size of the task awaiting Antonio Conte. Guus Hiddink suggested his team had been outdone “by smartness” rather than completely outplayed, pointing to City’s power on the counterattack, but that was a kind assessment. This was a fourth defeat in six games in all competitions as they meander uncharacteristically in mid-table. City were streetwise, a quality Chelsea once considered their own.

The ease with which the hosts were lacerated by City’s gallops upfield was disturbing, not least for the opening goal. It was Mikel John Obi who surrendered possession to Agüero at a corner before De Bruyne took over. He scorched away from Rahman and, having reached the penalty area unchecked, squared for the unmarked Agüero in the middle. The striker cut inside Gary Cahill and found the bottom corner via a deflection from the centre-half’s left boot.

The second was just as slickly taken, De Bruyne exploiting Azpilicueta’s hesitancy inside the City half to spring up-field and eventually clip Nasri free at his side. The Frenchman waited for Agüero to check his run and the forward’s 20th league goal of the season was converted crisply across Courtois.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek offered flashes of his quality in riposte and Nicolás Otamendi did hack a Pedro shot from the goalline but, even for the home team’s elder statesmen, this felt like an education.


=================


Telegraph:

Chelsea 0 Manchester City 3: Sergio Aguero hat-trick downs dismal hosts

Sam Wallace

Just when Chelsea thought their catastrophic title defence could get no worse, they found themselves demolished by a Sergio Aguero hat-trick that reminded them just how far they have slipped behind the kind of team capable of competing with Europe’s elite.

Kevin De Bruyne, regrettably for Chelsea no longer one of theirs, put on a counter-attacking masterclass, Aguero scored the goals and last season’s champions slipped back further into this season’s mediocrity. If Bournemouth win against Liverpool on Sunday, the humble Cherries will be level on points with Chelsea with five games to play.

There was a whiff of farce about the way in which Chelsea crumbled, with Thibaut Courtois denying Fernandinho an obvious goalscoring opportunity in the 79th minute. On came Asmir Begovic to try in vain to stop the Aguero hat-trick goal but really, it felt at that moment as if Guus Hiddink could have sent on the lesser-spotted Radamel Falcao between the sticks and it would not have made much difference.

It is one thing to be bad, but when you become a laughing stock, the pressure really begins to tell and up in the expensive seats Roman Abramovich was caught by television cameras staring at his phone rather than the catastrophe unfolding on the pitch.

Manuel Pellegrini, whose side keep pace with Manchester United in the race for fourth place, raised an eyebrow at the decision not to include Sergio Aguero on the professional Football Association’s short list for the player of the year, after the striker drew level with Jamie Vardy on 21 goals.

“It's very strange that Sergio has played so many years here and has never been the best Premier League player here,” Pellegrini said. “I think here, in the Premier League, we have very good players but without doubt Sergio is one of the best.”

De Bruyne and Aguero are two players very much on the same wavelength and a devastating counter-attacking force when it came to creating the first goal on 33 minutes. Possession came from a Chelsea corner cleared to Aguero and then to De Bruyne who, picking the ball up in his own half, drove forward deep into Chelsea territory.

In these cases, the run will get you so far but it is the final ball that counts. The Belgian, back at Stamford Bridge for the first time since his return to English football, picked his moment to nudge it left between Baba Rahman and Cahill to Aguero. This was by no means a simple finish although finish it Aguero did, doubling back onto his right foot and shaping his shot inside Courtois’ left post.

City face Real Madrid in their Champions League semi-final first leg a week on Tuesday and there is no question that with their best players fit and in form they are coming to the boil nicely. Pellegrini said that league form would help dictate how they played in Europe.

“I spoke with the players two weeks ago before we played PSG that the best way to arrive playing against a difficult team like Paris is to play well in the Premier League. In this moment, I think the same ahead of Real Madrid. We needed these points to reach the Champions League again.”

Hiddink selected Ruben Loftus-Cheek in the playmaker role behind Diego Costa and the Englishman had a couple of good moments. He deceived Nicolas Otamendi to get in on goal in the first half but the angle was difficult to beat Joe Hart. If Loftus-Cheek wanted a blueprint for how to play the new role being he needed look no further than De Bruyne, the man doing it for City.

In the second half, Chelsea struggled to get out of second gear and it has got so bad that even the old dependables like Willian are not performing - he was substituted before the end with Pedro as Hiddink tried to inject some life into his side.

Kenedy and Bertrand Traore came on but by then they were two down, the second goal worked between De Bruyne and Samir Nasri to Aguero who finished comfortably. Asked later, Hiddink admitted that the young players he is trying to integrate are not currently getting much help from the senior professionals.

“It's good to see younger players coming through, but it's better to see them development under the lead of big players,” he said. “That is lacking a bit. If you have leaders, it's easier for them to integrate. But Loftus-Cheek is developing himself well.”

There was an argument that Pablo Zabaleta, booked in the first half, should have been sent off for a foul on Pedro on 65 minutes. Instead, Manuel Pellegrini substituted him and we witnessed a classic toddler fit of pique from the Argentine as he came off and refused even to offer his replacement Bacary Sagna the customary token encouragement.

Gary Cahill and then Courtois made errors for the penalty which Aguero never looked like missing and by then the stadium was emptying quickly. Chelsea have won one of their last seven in all competitions, including four defeats, and for them the end of the season truly cannot come quickly enough.


==================


Mail:


Chelsea 0-3 Manchester City: Sergio Aguero hits hat-trick against 10-man Blues to send City third as Kevin De Bruyne shines again

By SAMI MOKBEL FOR THE MAIL ON SUNDAY

Sat in his plush Stamford Bridge box, Roman Abramovich looked more interested in his mobile phone than Saturday's match. No wonder. Chelsea’s shocking season plumbed new depths as they were ripped apart by Manchester City.

You can’t blame Chelsea’s Russian owner for not watching as Sergio Aguero fired home a hat-trick to lift City above Arsenal into third place.

This fixture would usually have an impact on the title race. Instead, ahead of kick-off, it had a distinctly mid-table vibe.

City, of course, have bigger fish to fry. Their reward, if you can call it that, for dismantling Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday night is a Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid.
Chelsea, though, are out of fish. They don’t even have a frying pan.

Guus Hiddink’s biggest fear is motivating his players. With nothing but pride riding on the rest of the season, the Chelsea dressing room is flat.

So too was Stamford Bridge at the start of this clash. The malaise that has engulfed the club has infiltrated the supporters. Chelsea tried their best to inject some much needed urgency into their season in the opening stages.

Nicolas Otamendi atoned for his initial error by clearing Pedro’s goalbound effort off the line before Thibaut Courtois — returning to the starting XI after being dropped last week — denied City’s midweek hero Kevin De Bruyne.

Diego Costa thought he had given Chelsea a ninth-minute lead after Baba Rahman dispossessed Jesus Navas, but the effort was disallowed for offside.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek, starting in the No 10 role, then squandered another Chelsea opportunity, firing narrowly wide after more questionable defending by Otamendi.

If only Chelsea had shown this sort of quality earlier in the season then perhaps they wouldn’t be at the business end of the season without any business to complete. And their frailties soon found their way to the surface. It wasn’t as if they weren’t warned, either. Courtois denied De Bruyne again in the 23rd minute after Yaya Toure’s pass split Chelsea’s defence in two.

The Belgium goalkeeper was forced into action again four minutes later, stopping Samir Nasri’s effort after Aguero’s pass.
Courtois’ future at Stamford Bridge has been the subject of much scrutiny in recent weeks, his axing for last week’s defeat at Swansea only serving to fuel talk that he could be on his way.

In this form, however, Chelsea must do all they can to keep hold of their highly-rated goalkeeper, though not even Courtois could prevent City taking the lead in the 33rd minute. It was a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it job. One second City were defending a corner, the next they were celebrating taking the lead. Toure’s defensive header eventually fell to De Bruyne who carried the ball more than half the length of the pitch, leaving Rahman in his wake.

Chelsea half-expected City’s creator-in-chief to go it alone. Instead, he squared to Aguero who steadied himself before coolly slotting past Courtois. In short: pure quality. De Bruyne’s vision, Aguero’s finish. Breathtaking.

You have to wonder what Abramovich was thinking. De Bruyne, now a £54million star on his first return to Stamford Bridge since being allowed to leave in 2014, tore his expensively assembled team apart.
How could a footballer this talented have been allowed to leave? It’s a question Abramovich will surely be asking himself.

And how this Chelsea team could do with De Bruyne right now. Still, the Blues could have been on level at half-time had Willian not wasted a free-kick from a good position at the end of the first half.
Similarly, had Loftus-Cheek not mistimed his effort from just six yards out then Chelsea would have been celebrating.

Instead, they soon found themselves 2-0 down with De Bruyne, again, at the centre of it all.
Another searing run from the Belgian had started deep inside his own half and ended with a pass into Nasri, who slotted Aguero in. The finish was utterly ruthless and Chelsea, crowned champions under Jose Mourinho just 11 months ago, were being dismantled in their own backyard.

There was a slight blot on City’s afternoon in the 67th minute, when Pablo Zabaleta and manager Manuel Pellegrini shared cross words after the Argentine, who had been booked, was substituted. But that was nothing compared to Hiddink’s problems. The Dutchman saw Courtois sent off in the 78th minute for bringing down Fernandinho as the Brazilian ran through unchallenged.

Asmir Begovic was introduced in his place, but the keeper’s first job was to pick Aguero’s penalty from the back of the net. The sooner Chelsea see the back of this season the better.


MATCH FACTS, PREMIER LEAGUE TABLE AND MATCH ZONE

CHELSEA (4-2-3-1): Courtois 7; Azpilicueta 6, Cahill 6, Ivanovic 6, Rahman 6.5; Fabregas 6.5, Mikel 6 (Begovic 79mins); Willian 6 (Traore 70, 6), Loftus-Cheek 7.5, Pedro 7.5 (Kenedy 70, 6.5); Costa 7
Subs not used: Begovic, Miazga, Matic, Pato, Falcao
Booked: Azpilicueta, Mikel
Sent off: Courtois

MANCHESTER CITY (4-2-3-1): Hart 7; Zabaleta 5.5 (Sagna 67, 6), Otamendi 6, Mangala 7, Kolarov 6.5; Toure 8, Fernandinho 7.5; Navas 6, De Bruyne 8.5, Nasri 6.5 (Delph 75, 6); Aguero 9 (Iheanacho 85)
Subs not used: Caballero, Demichelis, Fernando, Bony
Scorer: Aguero 33, 54, 80 (pen)
Booked: Zabaleta, Otamendi, Nasri

Referee: Mike Dean
Attendance: 41,212
Man of the match: Sergio Aguero

Ratings by Oliver Todd at Stamford Bridge


=================


Mirror:


Chelsea 0-3 Manchester City: Sergio Aguero hat-trick sinks hapless Blues - 5 things we learned

BY NEIL MCLEMAN

Aguero scored a brilliant treble to condemn Guus Hiddink's men to their second consecutive defeat


Sergio Aguero's hat-trick inflicted the first Premier League home defeat on Guus Hiddink during his two spells as Chelsea boss.

The Blues were woeful as Manchester City climbed above Arsenal into third place for at least a day to complete a dream week for the Champions League semi-finalists.

Former Chelsea midfielder Kevin De Bruyne helped set up Aguero's first two goals – both scored on the counter-attack from deep inside the City half.

Following a home corner after 33 minutes, the Belgian exchanged passes with the Argentine before sprinting into the Chelsea half. He crossed to Aguero on the edge of the box and his shot was deflected into the corner off Gary Cahill.

The second goal after 54 minutes was even better as De Bruyne this time beat Cesar Azpilicueta deep in Chelsea's half before surging forward. He fed Samir Nasri and his ball released Aguero to score.

The Argentine, who missed a penalty against PSG in midweek, converted from the spot after 79 minutes after Thibaut Courtois was dismissed after bringining down Fernandinho. The Belgium goalkeeper was also sent off in the first game of the season against Swansea.

Defeat at the Liberty Stadium ended Chelsea's 15-match unbeaten run in the league in Hiddink's second spell. The Dutchman had not two league games in a row as a club manager since February 2004 whilst at PSV Eindhoven – and the Blues had not lost any of his 13 home matches in charge during his two stints as caretaker boss at the Bridge.

The only downside to City's win was Pablo Zabeleta's childish strop when he was subbed off by Manuel Pellegrini after 67 minutes.


Here are five things we learned:


1. Sergio Aguero can still win the Premier League Golden Boot this season

The brilliant Argentine's hat-trick takes him to 21 goals this season – the same as Jamie Vardy. Harry Kane leads with 22.

2. In the game of alphabet soup, KDB beat RLC

Kevin De Bruyne was brilliant on his return to Stamford Bridge as he was involved in both goals. By contrast, Ruben Loftus-Cheek looked out of his depth playing behind Diego Costa. The former Chelsea trainee is 20 – the same age as England regular Delle Ali

3. De Bruyne didn't have a point to prove, but he proved it anyway

The Belgian was never given a chance at Chelsea. He has now had a hand in 29 goals for City this season (15 goals, 14 assists). Look forward to see him running at the Real Madrid defence next week

4. Antonio Conte needs a new spine to this team

The old guard of Cech, Terry, Lampard and Drogba will all be gone next season. This 10th-placed side lacks leaders and needs investment to even compete for a top-four finish next season. The defence isn't good enough. There is only one striker

5. Manchester City's high-viz away kit does not go with anything

Especially Samir Nasri's Limahl-style hairstyle – not a highlight. And the lurid yellow/green number even makes Yaya Toure look fat. How does that work?


Player ratings

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Courtois 6 (Mikel, 79,5); Azpilicueta 6, Cahill 6, Ivanovic 6, Baba Rahman 5; Mikel 6, Fabregas 5; Willian 6 (Traore, 70,5), Loftus-Cheek 5, Pedro 5 (Kenedy, 70,5); Diego Costa 6

Man City (4-2-3-1): Hart 7; Zabaleta 6 (Sagna, 67,6), Mangala 6, Otamendi 7, Kolarov 6; Fernandinho 6, Toure 6, Navas 6, De Bruyne 8, Nasri 7 (Delph, 75,5), Aguero 8 (Iheanacho, 85,5).


======================


Express:


Hat-trick hero Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne shine for Man City to outclass Chelsea

ONCE UPON a time, not so very long ago, this match would have been a crackajack title decider.

By JIM HOLDEN


Now? Well, it was all about Manchester City putting a padlock on a place in the top four of the Premier League table at the expense of champions who have become a busted flush.

The task was performed with ruthless skill and alarming ease. Chelsea must be aching for this dismal season to end and new manager Antonio Conte to arrive.

All three goals came from Sergio Aguero, the first two set up by the vision and talent of Kevin De Bruyne; the third a penalty. The pair were a class above anything on show from the home side.

Chelsea ought to have had the freedom and lack of tension in their play that comes with a berth in mid-table. Entertaining the fans is the only reward they can offer in the finale of the club’s poorest season for nearly two decades.


Even that couldn’t help their cause. They made a bright start, but it proved a mirage.

Only a clearance on the goal-line from Nicolas Otamendi prevented a goal in the sixth minute for Pedro after a ball over the top caused havoc in the City defence.

Chelsea’s young hope from the junior ranks, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, was also heavily involved. playing just behind main striker Diego Costa. He scorned another early chance, shooting wide of goal.

After that they lapsed into sterility, going through the motions for long periods.

Touchline hoardings were advertising some pre-season summer friendlies, including matches against Real Madrid and AC Milan. It is the nearest Chelsea will get to continental opposition in the next year.


The contrast with City could not be greater. They have a Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid in a couple of weeks’ time, and were glad to have influential midfielder Yaya Toure back in the team here.

A precision pass from Toure almost set up a goal for De Bruyne midway through the first half, but Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois produced a fine save. The sight of De Bruyne performing with style and panache at Stamford Bridge must have been painful for Chelsea fans.

He was back at the club that didn’t reckon he was good enough for them. Selling the Belgian star was surely one of the most damning mistakes made by former manager Jose Mourinho.

De Bruyne was the architect of the opening goal for City in the 33rd minute, breaking with pace down the right flank and then finding Aguero with an intelligent square pass.

The striker steadied himself for a moment and shot low into the corner of the goal for his 19th strike of this Premier League campaign.


City took complete command, looking dangerous on every break and far more composed in possession. A second goal for Aguero in the 54th minute was no surprise to anyone. Again, it was the twinkling genius of De Bruyne that created the opportunity.

He drifted past two opponents inside his own half and launched a clinical counter-attack. Samir Nasri provided a superb final pass and Aguero scored efficiently.

For the first time the home crowd were agitated at the mediocrity of their side. City could have scored again in the 64th minute, but Courtois made a superb save at the feet of Nasri.

Courtois didn’t finish the match, sent off when bringing down Fernandinho as he ran clear on goal. Aguero completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot and made it 21 League goals this season, challenging for the Golden Boot alongside Harry Kane and Jamie Vardy.

It prompted an exodus from the home crowd. There were swathes of empty seats all round Stamford Bridge as the final whistle sounded. It was a picture of embarrassment.


MAN OF THE MATCH: KEVIN DE BRUYNE – magical work at heart of most of Manchester City’s attacks, showing Chelsea just what they lost.

CHELSEA: Courtois; Azpilicueta, Ivanovic, Cahill, Baba; Fabregas, Mikel (Begovic 79); Willian (Traore 70), Loftus-Cheek, Pedro (Kenedy 70); Costa.

MAN CITY: Hart; Zabaleta (Sagna 66), Otamendi, Mangala, Kolarov; Fernandinho, Toure; Navas, De Bruyne, Nasri (Delph 75); Aguero (Iheanacho 85).

Ref: M Dean


=======================


Star:


Chelsea 0 Man City 3: Deadly Sergio Aguero punishes Blues to tighten grip on top four

SERGIO AGUERO continued to be City’s one-man wrecking ball.

By Tony Stenson


He grabbed his second hat-trick of the season and made it 21 goals from his last 20 league appearances and 24 in all competitions to put the seal on a wonderous week in the club’s history.

It was also his 99th Premier League goal. There is no stopping the little master who, in another season, would be a shoo-in for Player of the Year.

His manager Manuel Pellegrini said: “I am sure he is the best striker in the league, he makes a difference playing every game.

“He is a very important player and it is strange in so many years he plays here he is not the best player of the league.”

Victory ensured City leap-frogged Arsenal into third but the Gunners could restore the status quo if they beat Palace at home today.

It was another bad day for Chelsea who had keeper Thibaut Courtois sent off for the second time this season when he brought down Fernandinho in the 77th minute to give away a penalty.


Two of Aguero’s goals were masterminded by Kevin De Bruyne on his return to the club that refused to accept his potential.

City began as if the puff had left their lungs and their feet were carrying lead weights following their epic win over Paris St-Germain in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Chelsea forced seven corners in half an hour and even had the ball in the net only for it to be ruled offside.

Chelsea ruthlessly cut through their defence and if they could do it, then you wondered what would Cristiano Ronaldo’s Real Madrid could do in the Champions League semi-finals?

It had started so well for the home side with City having a lucky escape when Nicolas Otamendi raced back and cleared Pedro’s fifth-minute shot off the line after Diego Costa had caused havoc in their defence with his powerful running.

Costa then had the ball in the net a minute later but was ruled offside.


Too many draws, too many indifferent performances and a second succesive defeat is the reason why new manager Antonio Conte arrives this summer.

Chelsea have been fall-guys at home, going into the game having one just one of their last seven games, drawing the rest and failing to keep a clean sheet in nine – their worst run in the Premier League.

Yet City could not find their rhythm until De Bruyne broke on to Yaya Toure’s 23rd-minute pass to fire in a shot that Courtois hacked away with his legs.

The keeper repeated his heroics two minutes later, saving in similar fashion from Samir Nasri.

Then one moment of magic had City back up and running.

Aguero – who is sensational every game – added yet another glorious chapter to his career by sweeping in a goal of true quality.


Chelsea’s seventh corner was easily cleared again and De Bruyne left Chelsea defender Baba Rahman in his wake with a powerful run.

His 33rd-minute cross was not perfect, dropping slightly behind Aguero.

But the player who scores for fun, switched feet and curled in from 18 yards, his shot deflecting off the toe of Gary Cahill on its way past Courtois.

Chelsea still powered forward but for all their efforts they rarely tested keeper Joe Hart.

City added to their score in the 54th minute following a brilliant flowing move.

Chelsea had yet another raid blocked and again De Bruyne took up the running, sliding the ball between two Blues players, picking it up again and passing for Nasri, who fed Aguero the perfect pass to score his second.


Nasri was unlucky himself five minutes later when his effort was blocked by Courtois.

Costa, on his return following a ban, was almost non-existent while Cesc Fabregas and even Willian, their best player this season, fell below the standards needed.

Chelsea were running out of ideas and it was no surprise when City added the third from the spot.

Fernandinho went flying over Courtois and Mike Dean went straight to his back pocket for the red card.


Sub keeper Asmir Begovic was immediately on to replace Jon Obi Mikel – but his first task was to pick the ball from the net after Aguero arrowed his third goal home.

It was virtually his last touch, before he was replaced and left the field to a thunderous reception.

“It was a difficult game against a well-organised and skilful team,” said Chelsea interim boss Guus Hiddink.

“It’s not for nothing that they are at the top of Europe now.

“We sometimes had dominance in the game, but they were sharp and skilful on the counter-attack. We got caught. We were naive.

“Chelsea are in a diffi cult situation this season. We managed to get out of the relegation zone but Chelsea need to be in the first four places.”

Swansea 0-1

Independent:

Gylfi Sigurdsson strikes as Blues lose first League game under Guus Hiddink

Swansea City 1 Chelsea 0

Rob Stewart Liberty Stadium 12 hours  ago0 comments

Guus Hiddink, the Chelsea interim manager, warned his “sloppy” players to raise their game after the club’s 15-match unbeaten Premier League run was brought to an unceremonious halt by Swansea City.

Gylfi Sigurdsson’s first-half goal condemned Chelsea to the first league defeat since Hiddink succeeded Jose Mourinho last December.

It ensured a disappointing end to a week that began with confirmation that Italy manager Antonio Conte would take over the reins at Stamford Bridge this summer.

“I don’t think the Conte appointment affected the players because what we did in the second half was good so I don’t think they had it in mind to look to next season,” Hiddink said.

“But it is not just about a new manager, you have to show at a club like this what you are capable of. The players have to be internally motivated, that is a key condition to being at a club like Chelsea.”

Sigurdsson put Swansea on course for their first ever Premier League win over Chelsea when he volleyed past Asmir Begovic from 15 yards in the 25th minute.

The Iceland international struck after Jefferson Montero had bamboozled the Chelsea defence and took maximum advantage of a weak-headed clearance by centre-back Matt Miazga, who was unable to fill the void left by injured duo Gary Cahill and John Terry.

Montero should have doubled the lead late on while Alexandre Pato missed two sitters on his first start for Chelsea.

We expected a tough game, they needed three points and we were safe. We had a soft target we had achieved, so we expected a lot of opposition,” Hiddink added.

“We created some chances in the first 20 minutes but we were sloppy. We thought it would come, but if you do not take those chances you get into trouble and we got into trouble going 1-0 down.”

Hiddink defended the decision to drop Thibaut Courtois in favour of Begovic.

“Begovic is a good keeper and he has proven that,” Hiddink said. “He has done his job as a professional very well. He is 100 per cent committed in every training session and that is why I rewarded him with the chance to play.”


Francesco Guidolin, the Swansea manager, effectively conceded that the club’s Premier League status had been safeguarded by the win.

“I think we are safe now,” he said. “We know it is not completely done but now I think we can see a way forward and are not looking behind. It is an important moment for the club.

“That was the best performance since I took over and so this is a proud day for me and for the players. We need to finish the season well.”


============


Observer:

Swansea’s Gylfi Sigurdsson sees off Chelsea to ease relegation worries

Swansea 1 - 0 Chelsea

Press Association


Guus Hiddink said the first league defeat of his second spell as Chelsea manager was not down to the announcement that Antonio Conte will be in charge at Stamford Bridge next season.

Hiddink had not lost any of his 14 Premier League games since succeeding José Mourinho in December, but his side came unstuck here as Gylfi Sigurdsson’s 25th-minute volley took Swansea City City to 40 points, the usual mark for safety.

Chelsea announced this week that Conte will be taking over after leading Italy at Euro 2016 in France, but Hiddink said: “What we did in the second half was good. I don’t think they had it in mind to look to next season.”

Chelsea won 5-0 at Swansea last season on their way to the title, but there were only three survivors from the side that produced one of the real high points of Mourinho’s second spell in charge. Hiddink was without several first-team players because of injury or suspension, among them John Terry, Gary Cahill, Nemanja Matic, Willian and Diego Costa, but he sprang a surprise by preferring Asmir Begovic to Thibaut Courtois in goal.

“He [Begovic] has done his job as a professional very well,” Hiddink said. He is 100% committed in every training session and that is why I rewarded him with the chance to play.

“We created some chances in the first 20 minutes but we were sloppy in taking those options. The second half we were on the front foot but did not create many chances and it is a disappointing defeat.”

The Chelsea defence was an accident waiting to happen with Jefferson Montero tormenting them in the same fashion as he had on the opening day of the season in a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge.

Begovic had to cling on to Montero’s deflected effort at the foot of a post before Matt Miazga carelessly conceded possession in the corner. Montero found Sigurdsson who forced a save from Begovic, but the defence was not to survive after Àngel Rangel failed to find the target from a promising position.


Miazga was at fault again as his poor header from Montero fell perfectly to Sigurdsson, who rifled home his ninth goal in 14 games to reward Swansea’s superiority.

This was Swansea’s third win in four games and their head coach, Francesco Guidolin, said: “I think we are safe now. We know it is not completely done, but now we can see a way forward and are not looking behind. It is an important moment for the club. This is a proud day for me and for the players. We need to finish the season well.”

Guidolin took charge in January and he has won six of his 12 matches to stave off the threat of relegation. “That was the best performance since I took over,” he said. “The first half we were very good. I knew we could play this way, but as a new manager I had to get to know my players and today I saw my team play as I want – with intensity, quality and aggression.

“We miss only one thing. We deserved to win by more and we should have scored a couple more in the first half.”


================


Telegraph:


Swansea City 1 Chelsea 0: Welsh side on the verge of American takeover

Graham Clutton, at the liberty stadium


Swansea City are on the verge of being taken over by American investors. The club have confirmed that it is working to finalise the introduction of a new majority shareholder.

In a statement, it was confirmed that board members have discussed an agreement which would see Steve Kaplan, Jason Levien and their investment group acquiring a controlling interest in the club. Levien is currently managing general owner at Major League Soccer outfit DC United and Kaplan is a shareholder in NBA franchise Memphis Grizzlies. Chairman Huw Jenkins and vice chairman Leigh Dineen would remain in their management leadership roles at the club.

“Talks will continue with the aim of an agreement to be ratified by the end of the season,” Jenkins said. “We believe we have a proposal which will help Swansea City progress both on and off the field.”

On the field Gylfi Sigurdsson brought Chelsea’s four-month unbeaten run in the Premier League to an end and took Swansea City a significant step closer to safety. The Icelandic international struck in the 25th minute to earn Francesco Guidolin’s side a victory that takes them 13 points clear of Sunderland, who currently occupy the final spot in the bottom three.

For Chelsea, who were toothless for much of the game, it was another disappointment in a season that nobody could have predicted. Still, for the visiting fans, who made themselves heard at the Liberty Stadium, the impending arrival of new head coach Antonio Conte, does, at least, provide some salvation.

Manager Guus Hiddink is far from downbeat with the state of play at Stamford Bridge but did chastise his players for their first-half performance. “In the first 20 minutes we created some half chance. However, if you don’t take those opportunities you know you could be in trouble later on. Then we gave away a sloppy goal,” he said.

“I thought in the second half we played mostly in their half but we didn’t really create too many chances.

“I don’t think the managerial announcement took away from the focus of the game. I think we showed that in the second half.

“I really don’t think they had that on their mind.”

In contrast, Swansea manager Francesco Guidolin was overjoyed with his side’s most complete performance since he took over.


“I am very happy with the performance and I think we are safe now,” he said. “I think now, we can look forward rather than over our shoulders.

“However, it’s important to finish the season well.”

Swansea might not be mathematically safe, but after a mid season wobble, they look like a side who will comfortably hold on to their Premier League status.

The only goal of the game came after 25 minutes. The Ecuadorean wing Jefferson Montero, who was playing in the club’s under 21 side last month, whipped in a cross that Matt Miazga headed into the path of Sigurdsson. The club’s leading scorer made no mistake with a volley from 15 yards.


Chelsea should have been level at half time. With the last kick of the half, Alexandre Pato scuffed his shot wide from barely eight yards. It summed up Chelsea’s first 45 minutes. With Kenedy having replaced the out-of-sorts Miazga at the interval, Chelsea looked a more compact unit at the back. It provided a platform on which Cesc Fabregas and Jon Obi Mikel began to dictate the pace.

Pato had a goal disallowed, correctly, for handling the ball outside the box whilst at the opposite end, a better touch from Alberto Paloschi would surely have led to a second for Swansea.

With Chelsea having stepped up their endeavour, the game was significantly more open and when Pedro picked out Pato, the striker’s deft touch saw the ball shave the far post.

However, that was the last of the goalmouth action and Swansea, despite one or two scares, duly took the most important three points of their hit-and-miss season.



==========================


Mail;

Swansea 1-0 Chelsea:

Gylfi Sigurdsson volley gives Francesco Guidolin's side victory as Guus Hiddink suffers first league defeat

By RIATH AL-SAMARRAI FOR THE MAIL ON SUNDAY

If he didn’t know it already, Antonio Conte will now be familiar with just how fickle Chelsea can be. The team that fell so far and climbed back so well delivered one of those mystifyingly bad afternoons that Guus Hiddink must have thought was behind them.

To his immense credit, such displays are plainly the exception these days and not the norm that they had become under Jose Mourinho.

But in the process of suffering their first league defeat of the Dutchman’s second coming, Chelsea did plummet to a quite feeble low here. They were especially dreadful in the first half, undermined by frequent defensive errors and unable to adapt to a Swansea side that suddenly and without warning started playing exceptionally well.


Gylfi Sigurdsson got the goal that settled the match, volleying his ninth goal in 14 games in the 25th minute and taking Swansea to the notionally important mark of 40 points. In a wretched season, it was a brilliantly bright performance and a result that was thoroughly deserved.

Hiddink, whose side had been unbeaten in 15 prior to this trip, said: ‘We expected a tough game - they needed three points and we were safe. We had a soft target (to beat relegation) we had already achieved, so we expected a lot of opposition. We created some chances in the first 20 minutes but we were sloppy in taking those options.

‘If you do not take those chances you get into trouble and we got into trouble. It is disappointing, it is not about me (and his unbeaten record) but the objective is to win games. We gave some younger players the opportunity to play and it means there is a risk to lose games. I prefer to have this risk.’

Asked if Conte’s confirmation as manager may have had an effect on the performance, Hiddink said: ‘It is not just about a new manager - you have to show at a club like this what you are capable of. The players have to be internally motivated, that is a key condition to being at a club like Chelsea.’

While 20-year-old Matt Miazga was given a chance, and ended up leaving the game at half-time after being tormented by Jefferson Montero, Hiddink could at least point to an impressive performance from Asmir Begovic, who was selected ahead of Thibaut Courtois. The latter is being linked with a summer move away, but Hiddink was adamant the selection was merely a reward for his patience in sitting on the bench.
Hiddink said: ‘He has done his job as a professional very well, he is 100 per cent committed in every training session and that is why I rewarded him with the chance to play.’

For Swansea, this was an uplifting breath of fresh air. The only questions manager Francesco Guidolin might now ask himself is why it took so long to give Montero his first league start of the season – he was a serious menace on the left wing - and why football as attractive as this has been so elusive, even in the process of Swansea winning four of their past six games.

The Italian, whose future is not yet decided beyond the summer, said: ‘That was the best performance since I took over. I knew we could play this way but as a new manager I had to get to know my players and hereI saw my team play as I want, with intensity and aggression. We deserved to win by more and we should have scored a couple more in the first half.

‘I think we are safe now. We know it is not completely done but now I think we can see a way forward and are not looking behind. It is an important moment for the club.’

On Montero, he added: ‘He played well and know I can say we have another important player. I am happy for him and for my team. It gives me more solutions for this team. He played very well with and without the ball, which is important.’

The winger repeatedly caused trouble for Chelsea, leading to both Cesar Azpilicueta and Miazga getting booked in the first half the latter ultimately being hauled off at the break. Before that, Montero had already caused difficulties with a 25th-minute cross that Miazga failed to clear, allowing Sigurdsson to volley the winner.

Chelsea’s day was summed up when Alexandre Pato had their best chance in the second half but opted to flick his finish instead of something more simple and effective. The shot went wide and Hiddink quietly seethed. Who knows what Conte made of it all.


MATCH FACTS, PLAYER RATINGS, PREMIER LEAGUE TABLE AND MATCH ZONE

Swansea (4-2-3-1): Fabianski 6; Rangel 6, Fernandez 6.5, Williams 7.5, Taylor 6.5; Cork 7.5, Fer 7.5; Ayew 6 (Routledge 67, 6), Sigurdsson 7.5, Montero 8 (Naughton 84); Paloschi 7 (Gomis 75, 6)
Subs not used: Amat, Ki, Nordfeldt, Barrow.
Booked: Rangel, Paloschi, Taylor, Fer, Williams

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Begovic 7; Azpilicueta 5.5, Miazga 4.5 (Kenedy 46, 6), Ivanovic 6, Baba 6; Mikel 6, Fabregas 5; Oscar 6, Loftus-Cheek 6.5 (Falcao 76), Pedro 6.5; Pato 4.5 (Traore 64)
Subs not used: Courtois, Aina, Palmer, Colkett.
Booked: Azpilicueta, Miazga, Pedro, Fabregas

Referee: Andre Marriner
MOM: Jefferson Montero
Att: 20,966


=========================


Mirror:


Swansea 1-0 Chelsea: Gylfi Sigurdsson strikes to end Guus Hiddink's streak - 5 things we learned

BY ANDREW GWILYM

The Icelandic international's first half strike was enough to give the Swans all three points and end Hiddink's unbeaten run in the Premier League

Swansea claimed a first Premier League win over Chelsea to serve notice of the task facing new Blues boss Antonio Conte.

Gylfi Sigurdsson scored the only goal of the game, volleying home a poor Matt Miazga clearance, to all but secure top-flight survival for the Welsh club.

Chelsea, admittedly without several injury absentees, were well off the pace as they suffered a first league defeat under interim boss Guus Hiddink.

Pato missed their best chance when he blazed wide from six yards in first-half stoppage time, while the Brazilian also turned a Pedro cross wide.

But they were undermined by an uncertain defensive display, with Jefferson Montero tearing them to shreds for the second time this season.

Five things we learned

Chelsea need to give John Terry a new deal

The saga over John Terry’s Chelsea future will only continue after this unconvincing defensive performance.

Given Matt Miazga’s horrendous struggle here it is hard to see how Terry would not be an asset for new boss Antonio Conte.

Begovic audition hindered by blundering defence

This was Begovic’s chance to stake an early claim for the number one jersey ahead of Conte’s arrival but he was often exposed by the blunders of those ahead of him.

He was helpless for Sigurdsson’s goal and had a couple of nervy moments with the ball at his feet.

No easy task for Conte

Conte was probably under no illusions about the size of his job at Stamford Bridge, but this will have rammed the message home.

Even with their injury problems this was not a side short on experience or assorted winners’ medals, but they were cowed by a hungry Swansea display.

Montero makes mockery of absence

The flying winger started for the first time under Francesco Guidolin and wasted no time in showing the absurdity of his recent omission by terrorising Chelsea for the second time this season.

Swansea are so much more threatening with his pace in the side.

Guidolin worthy of Swansea consideration

Francesco Guidolin’s time at Swansea has almost already been written into the past tense with the likes of Brendan Rodgers, Chris Coleman and Frank de Boer mentioned as leading contenders to take over this summer.

But it is worth remembering the Swans were just two points above the drop zone when he arrived and this was their best performance since the opening months of the season.


====================

Express:

Swansea 1 - Chelsea 0: Conte faces big challenge as shoddy showing ensures hosts' safety

FUTURE Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has an awful lot to fix before the start of the next season.

By HARRY PRATT

Swansea beat Chelsea for the first time in Premier League history

Certainly on this evidence, the Italy coach, whose arrival at Stamford Bridge after Euro 2016 was confirmed last week, appears to have his work cut out to revive the fallen English champions.

Sure, yesterday’s reverse may have been the Blues’ first defeat in 15 league games since temporary coach Guus Hiddink replaced Jose Mourinho in December.

And, before anyone gets too carried away with a disappointing performance, it should be noted their line-up contained a number of youngsters still hoping to make the grade.

However, that cannot excuse the meek manner in which Chelsea were comprehensively outplayed by a Swansea side still not totally safe from relegation danger.

If Conte did not already know much investment is needed to strengthen the squad, he definitely does now.

Boss Hiddink said: “We were sloppy in possession and didn’t create nearly enough. It was as if we thought chances would just materialise.

“It’s not only about players showing the new manager what they can do because, at a big club like Chelsea, you have to show what you are capable of every game – and that you are internally motivated. That’s a key condition.

“My personal unbeaten run has ended. It’s disappointing. But I was prepared to put that at risk by giving some younger players their chance.”

Gylfi Sigurdsson’s first-half strike was enough to secure Swansea’s first ever Premier League victory over Chelsea.

The in-form Icelandic star’s ninth goal in his last 14 outings means Francesco Guidolin’s Welsh strugglers now have the magical 40 points.

Barring an absurd twist in events, they can look forward to a sixth straight year among the elite. What the result does for their Italian gaffer Guidolin’s long-term job prospects remains to be seen.

The man himself declared: “Yes, I think we are safe now. Not absolutely safe but we’re looking up.

“This was the best performance in my three months here. I’d like to have the chance to work more with these players but right now my situation is not important.

“We are in a much better place than when I came. I hope I’ve done the job I was asked to do.”

Swansea’s Recalled Jefferson Montero took an age to deliver his cross yet Matt Miazga’s headed clearance fell for Sigurdsson, who rifled in a bouncing first-time volley.

Talk about being clinical – and if Leroy Fer had repeated that trick immediately after Swansea would have been well on their way to a memorable victory.

As it was they had to settle for a narrow lead at the break – and were mighty relieved to even have that to show for their dominance.

Chelsea should have levelled – but Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato, who scored on his debut last week, somehow contrived to miss an open goal from six yards out.


MAN OF THE MATCH: Jefferson Montero – the sun was shining so the Swans winger did the same. Shame he doesn’t do it more often.

SWANSEA: Fabianski; Rangel, Fernandez, Williams, Taylor; Cork, Fer, Sigurdsson, Ayew (Routledge 67), Montero (Naughton 84), Paloschi (Gomis 75)

CHELSEA: Begovic; Azpilicueta, Miazga (Kenedy 45), Ivanovic, Baba; Mikel, Fabregas, Oscar, Loftus-Cheek (Falcao 76), Pedro; Pato (Traore 64)


=========================


Star:

Swansea 1 Chelsea 0: Sigurdsson on target as Swans reach 40-point barrier

FUTURE Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has an awful lot to fix before the start of the next season.

By Harry Pratt

Certainly on this evidence, the Italy coach – whose arrival at Stamford Bridge after Euro 2016 was confirmed last week – appears to have his work cut out to revive the fallen English champions.

Yesterday’s reverse may have been the Blues’ first defeat in 16 league games since temporary coach Guus Hiddink replaced Jose Mourinho in December.

And before anyone gets too carried away with a disappointing display, it should be noted the Chelsea line-up contained a number of youngsters still hoping to make the grade.

But that cannot excuse the meek manner in which they were comprehensively outplayed by a Swansea side still not totally safe from relegation.

If Conte did not already know much investment is needed to strengthen the squad, he definitely does now.

“We were sloppy in possession and didn’t create nearly enough,” said a dejected Hiddink.

“It was as if we thought chances would just materialise.

“It’s not only about players showing the new manager what they can do because, at a big club like Chelsea, you have to show what you are capable of every game – and that you are internally motivated. That’s a key condition.”

In contrast, Swansea boss Francesco Guidolin was thrilled with his team and said: “I think we are safe now. Not absolutely safe but we’re looking up.

“This was the best performance in my three months here. I’d like to have the chance to work more with these players but right now my situation is not important.”

Gylfi Sigurdsson’s first-half strike was enough to secure the Swans’ first Premier League victory over Chelsea.

The in-form Iceland star’s ninth goal in his last 14 outings means Guidolin’s side now have the magical 40 points.

In truth, they should have won by a bigger margin after dominating from the start.

And barring an absurd twist they can look forward to a sixth straight year among the elite.

Conte will be running the rule over his players – and no one on show at the Liberty Stadium did themselves any favours.

Fresh from giving Aston Villa a pasting last Saturday, this trip was always going to be a tougher proposition for Hiddink’s Blues as, despite their own lowly position, Swansea are several cuts above the doomed Midlanders.

They almost broke the deadlock in the 18th minute when Angel Rangel burst into the box before shooting wide.

Eight minutes later they were ahead as Sigurdsson showed his Spanish team-mate how to finish.

Recalled Jefferson Montero took an age to deliver his cross but Chelsea defender Matt Miazga’s headed clearance fell perfectly for Sigurdsson, who rifled in a first-time volley.

And if Leroy Fer had repeated that trick immediately after, Swansea would have been well on their way to a memorable victory.

As it was, they had to settle for a narrow lead at the break – and were mighty relieved to even have that to show for their dominance.

After failing to create a single chance for 44 minutes, Chelsea should have been level in time added on at the end of the first half.

But Brazil striker Alexandre Pato somehow missed an open goal from six yards out.

That was a timely warning to the hosts that they needed a second-half display every bit as good to grab all the points. And they did not disappoint.

Aston Villa 4-0

Independent:

Alexandre Pato stars on debut but writing is on the wall for woeful Villa
Aston Villa 0 Chelsea 4

Jon Culley Villa Park

Aston Villa looked suspiciously like a team that had given up the ghost as they surrendered meekly to a seventh consecutive defeat, allowing an experimental Chelsea team to toy with them before being booed off the field by angry supporters.

Chelsea at last gave their Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato his long-awaited debut and the former AC Milan star responded by playing a part in all four goals - including one of his own from the penalty spot -- but even interim manager Guus Hiddink admitted it was not the toughest introduction to the Premier League.

Pato came on after French striker Loic Remy suffered a first-half groin injury that may finish his season and probably ends his hopes of being part of the squad Didier Deschamps for the Euro 2016 finals.
He scored his first Chelsea goal in first-half stoppage time, converting from the spot after he had been hauled down in the box by Villa defender Aly Cissokho.

Pato's first touch had played a part in the move that led to Chelsea's opening goal, converted by Rubens Loftus-Cheek from a Cesar Azpilicueta cross after 26 minutes, and he was involved in the build-up on both occasions when Pedro scored twice early in the second half to end any hope of a Villa recovery.

Signed on loan from Corinthians in January, Pato had been forced to wait 64 days to make his first appearance but Hiddink explained that he wanted to ensure the player was fit enough to cope with the pace of the Premier League.

"The expectation was that he would have come in sooner but we had to get his physical condition right, to put him through a pre-season before he could show his quality on the field," the Dutch coach said.
"It was not the toughest game and we will see how he will cope with more resistance but it was good to see him on the field."

Villa, who ended with 10 men after Alan Hutton was sent off for a second yellow card, had to cope with increasing hostility from their fans, who held up protest placards in the 74th minute in a planned demonstration - 1874 being the year the club was founded - and then folded them into paper aeroplanes to throw on to the pitch.

It was a difficult atmosphere for Eric Black to step into as caretaker manager following Remi Garde's dismissal last week but the Scot was not especially sympathetic with his players, who are no more than two more defeats away from their relegation being confirmed.

"It was not overly enjoyable but I can fully understand the way the fans are feeling," Black said.  "But they are professional players and they are paid to take responsibility for their performances. 
"The club needs to be taken and shaken and moved on and the only way to win back support is with what happens on the field."

Chelsea's opening goal arrived as soon as they decided to step up their pace after a low-key start, with Loftus-Cheek side-footing home his first Premier League goal with the help of a deflection off Joleon Lescott.
Hiddink felt the result was assured after Pato's penalty made it two-nil but a third goal came just 51 seconds after the restart, set up for Pedro by half-time substitute Oscar with a low cross after he had combined Pato on the left.

The two Brazilians linked up again after 59 minutes before Pato tested Guzan with a shot from the left that the goalkeeper saved, but only by pushing it into the path of Pedro, who easily put away his sixth goal of the Premier League season.

Hiddink had been true to his word in giving game time to some of the younger members of the Chelsea squad, starting with three 20-year-olds on the field.  As well as Loftus-Cheek, he played the Brazilian Kenedy on the left of midfield and gave a debut in defence to the 6ft 4ins American Matt Miazga, who played alongside Branislav Ivanovic in the centre with both John Terry and Gary Cahill injured.
Towards the end, 18-year-old defender Jake Clarke-Salter made his debut, Pedro for the final 17 minutes.

Villa, who left out Gabby Agbonlahor for disciplinary reasons after he was photographed smoking a shisha pipe during the international break, showed glimpses of intent, with Jordan Ayew their biggest threat, but could hardly argue that they deserved any better.
To add a little more salt in their wounds, defender Alan Hutton was sent off with five minutes left for a second yellow card.

Teams

Aston Villa (4-2-3-1): Guzan; Hutton, Richards, Lescott, Cissokho; Sanchez (Bacuna, 67), Westwood; Gil (Grealish, 66), Gueye (Lyden, 82), Ayew; Gestede.
Substitutes not used: Okore, Sinclair, Veretout, Bunn (gk).

Chelsea (4-1-4-1): Courtois; Azpilicueta, Miazga, Ivanovic, Rahman; Mikel; Pedro (Clarke-Salter, 74), Loftus-Cheek, Fabregas, Kenedy (Oscar, 45); Remy (Pato, 23).
Substitutes not used: Begovic (gk), Falcao, Traore, Matic.

Referee: Neil Swarbrick (Lancashire)

====================

Observer:

Alexandre Pato scores on debut as Chelsea and Pedro punish sorry Aston Villa

Aston Villa 0 - 4 Chelsea

Alan Smith at Villa Park

This might have been construed as the first meaningless game of the season, but at least Chelsea recorded something of note to pile another layer of misery on Aston Villa. It took 63 days for Alexandre Pato to make his first Chelsea appearance, but the Brazilian needed only 22 minutes to break his duck as the visitors finished with three debutants.

Matt Miazga, a January acquisition from New York Red Bulls, also made his bow, starting at centre-half, while Jake Clarke-Salter was given 15 minutes. Ruben Loftus-Cheek impressed for 90 minutes in an attacking midfield role, providing proof that despite a season to forget, Chelsea have something to look forward to in the near future.

For Villa, the horizon is far more bleak. There was a new man in charge – albeit temporarily – in Eric Black, but it was the same pitiful story. Only Jordan Ayew showed any fight and it said much that the disgruntled home fans were barely surprised to witness another embarrassing defensive surrender. Villa have long been down, but their relegation could be confirmed as early as next week depending on the results of Norwich and Crystal Palace.

It is hard not to feel sorry for the supporters who are still turning up to witness a weekly horror show from a team containing more Villains than Villans. “Proud history. What future?” read several hundred pieces of paper displayed on the Holte End before kick-off. A scrawled bedsheet behind the opposite goal went further: “No fight, no pride, no effort, no hope”.
“It’s not pleasant,” Black said of the rancourous atmosphere. “I’m only here a couple of months but it’s not been overly enjoyable. However, I can fully understand it.”

Their quest between now and May must solely be to restore some pride but Black said: “A massive turnaround is required at the club and people need to understand it’s going to take time.”

Such has been the absence of quality here this season that when Villa strung a few passes together after 20 minutes shouts of “Olé” went up from all four stands. That was as good as things got. After the move broke down, to a predictable chorus of sarcastic boos, Cesc Fàbregas pitched forward to Pedro, who was marginally offside before lofting the ball over Brad Guzan. His tasty finish was correctly scratched out.
Chelsea did not have to wait much longer for the opener, but first came the arrival of Pato, who replaced Loïc Rémy after 23 minutes due to a groin and tendon injury.

Guus Hiddink said there was a temptation to throw Pato in a few weeks earlier “but he would have been killed”. The Brazilian’s impact when finally sprung was almost instant, starting the move for Loftus-Cheek’s first league goal. It was Mikel John Obi who displayed the samba-like dance moves, though, jigging past Carlos Sánchez and Ashley Westwood and then feeding Pedro, who found César Azpilicueta. The defender’s cross from the right was met by Loftus-Cheek, taking a deflection off Joleon Lescott en route.

Ayew did have a couple of chances to equalise denied by Thibaut Courtois but the result was, as Hiddink said, “over” when Pato was brainlessly hauled down in the penalty area by Aly Cissokho in first-half injury-time. Pato slotted the penalty to Guzan’s right.

Fifty-one seconds of the second half had elapsed when Pedro deepened Villa’s wound, finishing off a lovely move involving Pato and the half-time substitute, Oscar and Pedro scored his second when tapping in after Guzan parried an elementary save from Pato before the hour mark.

The four-goal gap allowed Hiddink to bring Clarke-Salter on for the final stages. “It’s good to see [young players] coming in,” the interim manager said. “I always like to bring in youngsters and we have the rest of the season to bring in guys more frequently.”

Guzan was greeted by ironic cheers when he managed to smother a tame Branislav Ivanovic free-kick 11 minutes from the end, while Alan Hutton was shown a second yellow by Neil Swarbrick after a late tackle on Loftus-Cheek five minutes from time.
By that point Villa’s fans had found more entertainment in a paper plane contest from the aforementioned protest material. Some of them even found their target.

===================

Telegraph:

Aston Villa 0 Chelsea 4: Alexandre Pato scores on debut to send listless Villa closer to drop

Jon Culley, villa park

Woeful Aston Villa played like a team who cannot wait for the season to end as they were swept aside by a Chelsea side for whom Alexandre Pato at last made his debut and scored.

The Brazilian played a part in all four Chelsea goals after replacing Loïc Rémy, who suffered a groin injury during the first-half. His goal came when he converted a penalty in first-half stoppage time after being hauled down by Villa defender Aly Cissokho.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek had given Chelsea a 26th-minute lead and there were two goals from Pedro in the second half.

Villa, who ended with 10 men after Alan Hutton was sent off for a second yellow card, were booed and jeered by their own fans as they succumbed to a seventh consecutive defeat that leaves them on the brink of relegation.

Angry supporters held up protest placards in the 74th minute in a planned demonstration – 1874 being the year the club was founded – and then folded them into paper aeroplanes to throw on to the pitch.
Pato, the former AC Milan striker who joined Chelsea on loan from Corinthians in January but had to wait 64 days for his first appearance, may have more chances soon with Rémy feared to be facing a lengthy lay-off.

Hiddink, who maintained an unbeaten record with Chelsea in the Premier League that now extends to 15 matches, said he would have introduced Pato earlier in the campaign but for concerns over his fitness.

“The expectation was that he would have come in sooner but we had to get his physical condition right, to put him through a pre-season before he could show his quality on the field,” Hiddink said. “It was not the toughest game and we will see how he will cope with more resistance but it was good to see him on the field.”

Pato’s first touch contributed to the move that ended with Loftus-Cheek side-footing home from César Azpilicueta’s cross from the right, the young attacking midfielder registering his first Premier League goal with the help of a deflection off Joleon Lescott.

Chelsea gave debuts to two young players, bringing in 20-year-old US centre back Matt Miazga to partner Branislav Ivanovic in the middle with John Terry and Gary Cahill both injured, and giving 18-year-old Jake Clarke-Salter, another defender, a late taste of the action from the substitutes’ bench.

Yet Villa, with caretaker manager Eric Black in charge for the first time after Remi Garde left last Tuesday, folded miserably in the second half as Spanish forward Pedro finished them off with two all-too-simple goals within 14 minutes of the restart.

The first was a tap-in after just 51 seconds, set up by half-time substitute Oscar after a lovely combination with Pato on the left. Pedro added his sixth goal of the Premier League season after Oscar had again linked up with Pato, whose own shot was parried by Brad Guzan only for Pedro to pounce on the rebound.

Villa had showed glimpses of intent and some creativity, particularly when Jordan Ayew was involved. But Ayew’s example was not followed by many in claret and blue shirts and Black had little sympathy for the players.

“It was not a pleasant atmosphere but I can understand how the fans feel and the players are professionals and paid to take responsibility,” he said.

=====================

Mail:

Aston Villa 0-4 Chelsea: Alexandre Pato fires in debut goal as Pedro brace compounds misery for Eric Black's beleaguered side

By LAURIE WHITWELL FOR THE MAIL ON SUNDAY

By the time the final whistle arrived dozens of paper aeroplanes littered the touchlines at Villa Park. On them read the words: ‘Proud History, What Future?’ Fired down from the stands, they seemed symbolic of the trajectory this club in on.

The A4 sheets had been held aloft in protest by thousands in the 74th minute – Villa were formed in 1874 – and this performance was further evidence of why deep concern surrounds an upcoming Championship campaign.

Easily beaten by a Chelsea team in second gear, this Villa squad looks ill-equipped for the grind on English football’s second tier and desperately in need of manager to take a firm grip.

Nigel Pearson is the leading contender for the position and a pre-match TV interview with director Richard Bernstein appeared telling. Bernstein espoused the need to appoint an ‘English’ manager with Premier League and Championship experience, then smiled at the mention of the former Leicester boss.
Whoever takes charge has a monumental job on his hands. There is an increasing gap between Villa’s fans and the players, who in various instances were booed coming on, booed touching the ball, and booed trudging off the pitch.

Gabby Agbonlahor was dropped for this game as an investigation into his Dubai partying is conducted. But that seemed as much a blessing for him as a punishment.
‘You’re not fit to wear the shirt,’ sang the Holte End at one stage. Brad Guzan, at fault for Chelsea’s fourth, was jeered. Joleon Lescott endured more chants about his ‘accidental’ car tweet. Leandro Bacuna, who last week spoke about joining Ajax, was viciously barracked arriving as a second-half substitute.

There were ironic cheers when Aly Cissokho managed to clear the ball late on as a banner reading ‘No fight. No pride. No effort. No hope’ fluttered in the background.
Five minutes from the end Alan Hutton was sent off for a second bookable offence for lunging in on Rubens Loftus-Cheek, having earlier cynically clipped Alexandre Pato. Hutton, curiously, was applauded off.

Misguided perhaps, what had preceded gave cause to explain. Despite Villa supposedly scrapping for their lives, they played the game as if it was a pre-season friendly.
Chelsea were understrength, but still too powerful. Missing John Terry, Gary Cahill, Diego Costa, Eden Hazard and Willian already, Loic Remy was forced off injured in the 23rd minute.
Hiddink chose to give Pato his first Chelsea appearance, 64 days after his arrival. ‘We forgot that you were here,’ chanted the demob-happy travelling fans.

Two minutes later, Chelsea took the lead. Cesar Azpilicueta, granted yards of space by Cissokho’s meandering, crossed low and Loftus-Cheek steered in at the near post via a deflection off Lescott.
It was a first Premier League goal for the 20-year-old midfielder, who impressed throughout this game and must surely be given a substantial role next season by Antonio Conte.
Jordan Ayew did well, troubling Chelsea on a couple of occasions, but it always felt futile with Villa so porous at the back.

In first-half added time Cesc Fabregas crossed from the left and Cissokho felt the need to haul down Pato in the area. Referee Neil Swarbrick pointed to the spot and Pato stepped up to take and convert. He wheeled away in spread-eagle celebration as if it was a goal in a Champions League final. You could hardly blame him.

At half-time Hiddink replaced Kenedy with Oscar and within 50 seconds of the restart he contributed to Chelsea taking a 3-0 lead. Pato exchanged a delightful one-two to free his countryman, who cut back for Pedro to slot in unmarked.
Eight minutes later, the Spaniard had his second. Oscar played in Pato on the left and he hit a shot from 18 yards that Guzan allowed to squirm from his grasp. Pedro converted the rebound from an acute angle. Errors from Guzan are now a customary feature of matches.

Interim manager Eric Black said his players would simply have to deal with the deepening, dark atmosphere.
‘The reaction in the dressing room is irrelevant, it's out on the pitch where you change people's minds,’ he said. ‘We have to try to get the supporters back onside and the only way we can do that is on the pitch.
‘Body language is important and the punters now need to get something back. This club now needs to be taken, shaken and move on and get back to the level where it should be.’

MATCH FACTS, PREMIER LEAGUE TABLE AND MATCH ZONE FROM THE MATCH AT VILLA PARK

Aston Villa (4-3-3): Guzan 4; Hutton 4, Richards 5, Lescott 5, Cissokho 4; Gana 5.5 (Lyden 83’), Sanchez 5.5 (Bacuna 66), Westwood 6; Gil 4 (Grealish 66’ 6), Gestede 5, Ayew 6.5

Subs not used: Bunn, Okore, Sinclair, Veretout
Booked: Gana, Sanchez, Westwood
Sent off: Hutton
Manager: Eric Black 5

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Courtois 6; Azpilicueta 6.5, Miazga 6.5, Ivanovic 6.5, Rahman 7; Mikel 7, Fabregas 7; Pedro 7.5 (Clarke-Salter 74’ 6), Loftus-Cheek 7.5, Kenedy 6.5 (Oscar 46’ 7); Remy 5 (Pato 23’ 8)

Subs not used: Begovic, Falcao, Traore, Matic
Scorers: Loftus-Cheek 26, Pato 45+3, Pedro 46, 59
Booked: Fabregas
Manager: Guus Hiddink 8

Ref: Neil Swarbrick
Att: 31,120

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Mirror:

Aston Villa 0-4 Chelsea: Alexandre Pato scores on debut as Blues run riot - 5 things we learned

BY JAMES NURSEY

Alexandre Pato made his belated Chelsea debut and scored in this romp as doomed Aston Villa 's new board grasped the size of the job ahead.
Last term's champions thrashed sorry Villa with goals from Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Pato and a second half brace from Pedro.
Homegrown youngster Loftus-Cheek opened the scoring with a low finish from Cesar Azpilicueta's low cross in the 26th minute.

Sub Pato, introduced early on for the crocked Loic Remy, scored from the spot just before the break after Aly Cissokho bundled him over.
Moments into the second half it was 3-0 to the visitors and game over when Pedro converted Oscar's pass following a slick move.

Pedro netted his second in the 59th minute from a tight angle after Brad Guzan failed to hold Pato's shot from the edge of the area.
It went from bad to worse for the hosts when Hutton being shown a straight red for a foul on Loftus-Cheek late on.
It made grim viewing for Villa's new footballing board sat in the stands of Brian Little, Adrian Bevington and David Bernstein.


Here's five things we learned:

1. Pato finally plays and scores

His introduction sparked ironic cheers from the away fans who chanted: “We forgot that you were here” 64 days and seven minutes since he joined in January.
But he made his mark from the spot after stepping up ahead of Pedro following his first half introduction as a substitute for the injured Loic Remy.

2. Mikel has got skills

Chelsea's holding midfielder John Obi Mikel rarely gets credited with possessing sublime skills but the grafter showed his subtle side too with silky tricks to bamboozle his way past Idrissa Gana and Micah Richards in the move which led to the visitors' opener.

3. Jordan Ayew nearly breaks the goal

Not with a shot obviously, as the Ghana international has not scored for bottom club Villa in 2016 but after being denied by Thibaut Courtois he angrily kicked out at the goalframe and made it rattle.

4. Leandro Bacuna is a joke figure

You know you are not popular with home fans when you are booed on to the pitch like Dutch utility player Bacuna in the second half when he came on as sub.
He recently said he hoped to play in the Champions League within two years' time as he contemplates a move back to Holland.
But Villa fans made their feelings known chanting: “Champions League, you are having a laugh.”

5. Proud history, what future?

The club's slogan of 'Proud History, Bright Future' was re-written and displayed on placards by angry home fans who asked: 'Proud History, What Future'?
Some also held up a banner saying: 'No fight, no pride, no effort , no hope'.
While fans chanted: “You are not fit to the wear” and many left early in the 74 minute in a coordinated protest at owner Randy Lerner's reign.

Aston Villa

Guzan 4: Ironic cheers from home fans when he held on to tame shot
Hutton 5: Shown a straight red card late on for a foul on Loftus-Cheek
Richards 5: Hoodwinked out of position by John Obi Mikel for opener
Lescott 5: The defender was a passenger as game passed him by
Cissokho 5: Gave away penalty with crude foul on Pato
Gil 5: The Spaniard will be too lightweight for the Championship
Gana 5: As usual went missing and failed to make his mark
Sanchez 5: Makes too many loose passes to play holding midfield
Westwood 6: At least tries hard but his set-piece delivery was disappointing
Ayew 5: Lashed out at the post in frustration after failing to score
Gestede 5: Continues to miss chances and look out of his depth in the Prem
Subs: Grealish (Gil 66) 7, Lyden (Gana 82) 6, Bacuna (Sanchez 67) 6

Chelsea

Courtois 8: Good handling for a deserved clean sheet
Azpilicueta 7: Nice ball from the right flank for the opener
Miazga 7: Quiet afternoon for the debutant at Villa Park
Ivanovic 7: Chelsea captain was rarely troubled by the hosts
Rahman 7: The defender had a quiet afternoon in the Midlands
Mikel 8: Good skills which helped create space for Chelsea's opener
Fabregas 8: Bossed the midfield and seemed up for it now Mourinho gone
Pedro 8: Two clinical finishes to take his tally this term to seven
Loftus-Cheek 8: Looks like a first teamer in the making with a polished display
Kenedy 5: Replaced at the break by Oscar who was a threat
Remy 5: Hobbled off early in the first half as missed out on chance to score
Subs: Pato (Remy 23) 7, Oscar (Kenedy 46) 7, Clarke-Salter (Pedro 74) 6

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Express:

Aston Villa 0 - Chelsea 4: Pedro and Pato shine as relegation looms for Eric Black's men

CHELSEA consigned Aston Villa to their 22nd Premier League defeat this season with a 4-0 thrashing at Villa Park.

By JAMES CAMBRIDGE

The Blues opened the scoring through Loftus Cheek on 26 minutes and were two up just before the break courtesy of an Alexandre Pato penalty.
Pedro then turned on the magic in the second half scoring soon after the restart and then again on 59 minutes to double the lead to 4-0.
The result sees Chelsea move up to 9th in the table, leap-frogging Liverpool, while Villa cling to the bottom of the table destined for relegation.

The home fans must have sensed they would be in for one of those afternoons when Chelsea's first went in.
A ball played into the 18-yard box was met unconvincingly by Loftus-Cheek only to rebound off the hapless Joleon Lescott and into the Villa net.
And things would get worse for Eric Black's men just before half time as Aly Cissokho brought Pato down in the box, and the Brazilian gratefully stepped up to fire in his debut goal for the club.

At half time, Black's message to the Villa boys must have been to keep it tight, but it seems no-one in a Claret and Blue shirt was listening.
Just seconds after the whistle for the restart Brad Guzan found himself picking the ball out of his own net for the third time after some quality build up for the Blues.
Chelsea broke down the left flank and after some deft one-touch passes, picked out Pedro in the six-yard box who fired past Guzan.

And just 13 minutes later the fourth went in, Guzan parrying a fairly specualtive shot from Pato into the path of the on-rushing Pedro who finished well from a tight angle.
But it was to get worse for the Villa faithful, as Alan Hutton was shown a second yellow card for a challenge on Pedro and was given his marching orders on 85 minutes.
The boos rang out around Villa Park as the final whistle approached, and the defeat means Villa could be tasting Championship football as early as next week if other results don't go in their favour.

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Star:

Aston Villa 0 Chelsea 4: Goals from Loftus-Cheek, Pato and Pedro help sink sorry Villans

ANGRY Aston Villa fans once again turned on their hopeless, doomed flops.

By Harry Pratt

And who could blame them after they saw fallen champions Chelsea tear the basement boys to shreds?
A fine double from Spanish star Pedro, along with strikes by Ruben Loftus-Cheek and forgotten Brazil striker Alexandre Pato, stretched the Blues’ unbeaten league run to 14 games under Guus Hiddink.
But while the visiting supporters were celebrating a decent display – and joking about being there when Pato finally played and scored – the mood of their Villa counterparts was the opposite.
The Claret and Blue masses were fuming at the way their team crumbled – and did not hold back in venting their frustration.
“You’re not fit to wear the shirt” and “Championship? You’re having a laugh” were just two of the chants as messages on paper planes flew down from the half-empty stands.

No wonder the club suspended hitman Gabby Agbonlahor after he was snapped puffing on a shisha pipe in Dubai last week. He would not have got out of here alive had he shown his face.
One banner read: ‘No fight. No pride. No effort. No hope’ which perfectly summed up everything wrong at the club this season.
Yes, French coach Remi Garde was finally removed last week and replaced by assistant Eric Black.
But on this evidence the belated change will do nothing to stem Villa’s slide into the second tier after a seventh straight reverse.
Black has sympathy with the hate mob. The Scot said: “It’s not down to the punters to come back on board – it’s down to the team to win them round.
“I understand their frustration – a massive turnaround is needed.

“I will do by best but I don’t cross the white line. The players are paid to do that and we can’t protect them from the fans.”
Chelsea continue to splutter their way to the end of a campaign that in many ways has been every bit as shocking as Villa’s.
But at least the Stamford Bridge supremos can recognise a situation spiralling out of control – and take swift action.
That is why they sacked Jose Mourinho in December and drafted in Hiddink for a second spell.
It has not all been plain sailing since but results and the players’ effort have improved.
Three points at Villa was always a formality – but the real talking point was Pato.

He had not kicked a ball for 64 days but, after replacing the crocked Loic Remy in the first half, the on-loan samba striker showed he does possess genuine talent.
Pato came on in the 23rd minute and Chelsea went ahead soon after through Loftus-Cheek’s 26th-minute deflected effort.
And any hope of a Villa recovery disappeared when Pato was fouled by Aly Cissokho on the stroke of half-time and fired in the resulting spot-kick.
Chelsea’s third – 50 seconds into the second period – killed off all resistance as sub Oscar played a fine one-two with Pato and picked out Pedro for a simple finish.
And he was soon celebrating his second and Chelsea’s fourth as he chipped inside the far post.

Villa’s misery was complete when Scotland right-back Alan Hutton was sent off in the 85th minute for a heavy challenge on Loftus-Cheek – his second bookable offence.
Hiddink said: “It was a strange atmosphere but we did well.
“My personal unbeaten run is not so important but if it continues to the end of the season at least I will have something to be happy about.”

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