Marc Cucurella was Chelsea’s match-winner on Friday night in the crucial result against Manchester United.
Chelsea beat Man Utd 1-0 in their final home fixture of the Premier League season, meaning they are still right in the mix for Champions League qualification after climbing up to fourth spot.
Blues left-back Marc Cucurella, 26, guided in his header in the second half to earn three points at Stamford Bridge. Incidentally, that takes the defender’s tally up to seven goals across all competitions this campaign.
Enzo Maresca’s target was to secure Champions League qualification during his first season as the Chelsea head coach. Well, his side will travel to Nottingham Forest on the final day of the season knowing that a win will guarantee their return to Europe’s elite club competition.
Marc Cucurella showers Reece James with praise
Following the victory against Man Utd, Cucurella raved about Chelsea teammate and captain Reece James for his all-round quality.
It was the 25-year-old’s stunning cross that assisted the winning goal on Friday night.
When discussing Chelsea teammate James, Cucurella told BBC Sport: “It has been a tough season for him, a lot of injuries but he is one of the best players that we have in the squad. We are very happy to have him in the team and he helps us a lot.”
Maresca made three changes to Chelsea’s starting line-up against Man Utd, including the recall of James.
For the first time since February, James completed 90 minutes in a Premier League match. He reminded everyone of his individual quality, too.
Even though he’s popped up in central midfield quite a bit this season, James looked a lot more comfortable and effective in his usual right-back position against Man Utd.
In a recent interview, Enzo Maresca claimed Reece James makes Chelsea better when he’s in the team.
If the Englishman can stay fit and healthy, he makes such a difference to the side. The fact he’s made 25 appearances across all competitions this campaign is a positive step given his previous injury troubles.
Reece James belongs at right-back
Chelsea supporters often get frustrated when they see James operating in midfield because they’ve seen over the years he’s one of the world’s best right-backs when he’s fit and firing.
In the Man Utd victory, James floated in a trademark cross to assist Cucurella’s goal. Also, he went so close to scoring himself with a stunning half-volley that hit the post.
| Minutes played | Assists | Total shots | Accurate passes | Chances created | Successful dribbles | Dribbled past | Match rating |
| 90 | 1 | 2 | 53/62 (85%) | 1 | 1/1 (100%) | 0 | 7.9 |
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe praised Reece James after his performance last weekend. It’s great to see him follow it up with a great contribution against Man Utd.
