It’s not often a five-minute-long highlights video is basically goals-only, but when there are ten total scored in a game, that’s exactly what you get. Here then are the highlights of yesterday’s behind-closed-doors friendly between Chelsea and Fulham, which the Blues won 8-2 (5-1 at half), thanks to goals from Willian (x3), Batshuayi (x2), Rémy (x2), and Azpilicueta.
Chelsea started as close to a first-choice lineup as possible given absences, injuries, and impending transfers. The only three players who have been present in training this week who did not play were Thibaut Courtois, Andreas Christensen, and Charly Musonda Jr, all three likely assured of a first-team spot already, unlike most of the second-half players.
Chelsea starting XI today: Caballero; Azpilicueta, David Luiz, Cahill (c); Moses, Fabregas, Kante, Alonso; Willian, Batshuayi, Pedro.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 15, 2017
Conte rang the changes at half-time, leaving only David Luiz out there, who made way 15 minutes later for Azpilicueta’s second shift, who made way 15 minutes later for Gary Cahill’s second shift, with the captain’s armband getting traded every time as well.
Our second-half team: Eduardo; Kalas, David Luiz (c), Clarke-Salter; Tomori, Scott, Pasalic, Kenedy; Baker, Remy, Boga.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 15, 2017
Even in just these highlights, Chelsea come off looking the much faster, clinical, dominant team. Michy Batshuayi and Cesc Fàbregas in particular look great on the highlight reel.
Obviously this is just pre-season, and as we know pre-season is fake, but this is a great start to preparations for the season ahead.