Key talking points as Thomas Tuchel picks up his first win as Chelsea boss

A first-half Cesar Azpilicueta strike followed by a late Marcus Alonso volley secured three points for Chelsea over Burnley.

The 2-0 win gave the Blues their ninth league victory of the season, as they hope to kick on under new management.

Alonso’s strike means that Burnley are now level on points and goal difference with Newcastle United, having played one less.

Here are the five key talking points from the affair:

Tuchel’s first win

Thomas Tuchel picked up his first victory for the five time Premier League Champions this afternoon.

The win puts the side into seventh, joint on points with Tottenham Hotspur and Everton, although the two latter have each played two less league games than Chelsea.

The German will hope the win can be built upon when the Blues travel across London to face Spurs on Thursday.

Captain’s performance from Azpilicueta

Spanish defender Cesar Azpilicueta put in a real shift in the win.

Now the longest-serving player in the squad, he opened the scoring against Burnley with a clean strike after an overlap on the right-hand side. The goal was Chelsea’s first of Tuchel’s era.

Not only was he effective in the attacking third, he also organised Chelsea’s defence throughout, helping the side keep a clean sheet.

He showcased his versatility in the last 20 minutes, with the introduction of right-back Reece James making Azpilicueta a right-sided centre half.

Full-backs prevail

Left back Marcos Alonso marked his return to the side with a late volley to confirm the lead for Chelsea.

Preferred to Ben Chilwell this afternoon, Alonso doubled the lead provided by his compatriot and opposite full-back Azpilicueta.

Similarly to his fellow countryman, Alonso also performed well defensively, limiting options for Burnley midfielders.

No shots on target for Burnley

Sean Dyche’s side were unable to register a shot on target throughout the whole 90 minutes.

Strikers Matej Vydra and Chris Wood – although both being subbed off around the hour mark – frankly didn’t get the service they required.

Young striker Joel Mumbongo did hit the post late on, but the linesman’s late flag meant the shot wasn’t registered.

Defender James Tarkowski came close to scoring a consolation goal in injury time, but his header went just over the crossbar.

Chelsea (1.43) 2-0 (0.40) Burnley

— The xG Philosophy (@xGPhilosophy) January 31, 2021

The Clarets will hope they can find scoring form, as they host league-leaders Manchester City on Wednesday evening.

Werner goal drought continues

German striker Timo Werner has now failed to score in his last 12 Premier League outings for Chelsea.

Always lively and at the heart of the Blues’ attacks, Werner has been without his shooting boots of late. However, his attacking contribution in attack stems deeper than a lack of goals.

The 24-year-old’s movement and energetic nature provides a huge threat for opposition, often occupying defenders to make space for teammates.

With the new acquisition of German-speaking Thomas Tuchel, Werner will hope his luck in front of goal improves.

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