Chelsea speedsters key to Blues success, says Nevin

Chelsea’s ruthless finishing and counter-attacking play were key in turning what looked like a defeat into victory at Manchester City on Saturday, but club legend Pat Nevin insists the speed of Chelsea’s frontman is what did the trick.

Antonio Conte’s side notched up their eighth straight victory in the Premier League at the Etihad Stadium, with second-half strikes from Diego Costa, Willian and Eden Hazard cancelling out Gary Cahill’s own goal.

That extended Chelsea’s lead at the table summit to three points, and with a strike force so pacey Nevin – a fans’ favourite during his time at the club in the 1980’s when he made almost 200 appearances – believes the Blues will be striking fear into all of their Premier League opponents.

“The clinical and even surgical nature of the way City were opened up in that second half was mightily impressive,” he said.

“Enough has been said about Diego and Eden but that will not stop me saying there were moments of world-class play from both. Their pace plus that of course of Pedro and Willian was bordering on unstoppable.

“You don’t always realise the speed those guys move at, even in comparison with other Premier League players.

“Pedro looks fast anyway – those legs move like the roadrunner from the old cartoons. Willian speeding away to score his goal maybe raised an eyebrow or two but we know he is quick also and he looks it.

“Eden Hazard at the moment when he turns on the afterburners crushes defenders’ spirits, and that’s before his skills are utilised.

“The surprise of course to some degree is Diego. Once again we know he is quick but with his physique, power, size and walking style come on be honest, you’re amazed he is that quick. I know I am.”