Jorginho Makes First Start As Coach Sarri Kick-off Chelsea Career With Victory Over Perth Glory

 

 

Chelsea made a winning start to life under Maurizio Sarri as Perth Glory were beaten at the Optus Stadium.

 

New signing, Jorginho was handed a start just nine days after arriving from Napoli in a deal worth £57 million and immediately looked at home as 'Sarri-ball' began at the Blues.

 

Cesc Fabregas captained a side which also included the likes of David Luiz, Pedro, Alvaro Morata and Pedro from the off but the standout player of the first half for Callum Hudson-Odoi.

 

 

A young player with a point to prove, Hudson-Odoi created the chance for Pedro's opening goal with fine work down the left before finding the Spaniard in the centre to volley home after just five minutes.

 

Chelsea controlled the game thereon, with Jorginho and Fabregas dictating from the centre of the pitch. Jorginho was withdrawn at half-time with 101 touches and 98 successful passes during his first 45 minutes as a Chelsea player.

 

The Blues looked to press their advantage after the break and both Barkley, having been pushed further forward, and Fabregas hit the post before the hour mark.

 

 

Barkley carved out space on the left, after Hudson-Odoi had been withdrawn, and found Pedro in the centre but the latter's volley was well saved.

 

The former Everton nearly opened his account for his club when latching onto Cesar Azpilicueta blocked shot, but his off-balance shot from six yards was wayward.

 

Sarri continued to refresh his squad throughout the game as the likes of Tiemoue Bakayoko, Tomas Kalas, Charly Musonda and Emerson all on the pitch come full-time.