Mikel Merino sends message to Moises Caicedo after ‘terrifying’ challenge | Football

From Stamford Bridge, Metro Ben Fleming breaks down the winners and losers from Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

Caicedo sees Red

A big battle in midfield between Rice and Caicedo collapsed before the break when Caicedo was sent off for a bad challenge on Merino. The Ecuadorian had been solid up to that point, but his red card hampered the hosts’ impressive first-half display.

Estevao is showing his age

Estevao shone at Stamford Bridge in midweek against Barcelona but missed a golden opportunity and was kept out by Calafiori before being substituted at half-time. Perhaps this is a sign from Chelsea fans not to expect the world from this mercurial teenager just yet.

James gives a captain’s performance

A true captain’s performance from James in front of the home fans. Putting on a show in midfield, even before Caicedo’s departure, and continued his form after the break, providing the assist for Chalobah’s goal with a superb set-piece.

Chelsea match ratings: Sanchez 7, Gusto 7, Fofana 5, Chalobah 7, Cucurella 7, James 9, Caicedo 3, Estevao 5, Enzo 6, Neto 7, Joao Pedro 6. Subs: Garnacho 6, Delap 6.

Merino is no longer an emergency

Viktor Gyokeres is a welcome return to the Arsenal bench, but perhaps he should wait for his chance? Mikel Merino continued to exceed expectations leading the line, and showed true striker’s instincts to get behind Fofana and lead the way for Arsenal.

Hincapie prepares to fight

Starting his second consecutive league game, it was clear to see what Arsenal saw in Hincapie. The left-footed centre-back looked rough, but showed aggression in both boxes, and almost licked his lips with pleasure after snatching the ball from Neto inside his own box.

Arsenal match ratings: Raya 6, Kayu 7, Mosquera 6, Hincapie 7, Calafiori 7, Padi 7, Zubimendi 6, Eze 6, Saka 7, Martinelli 6, Merino 8. Subs: Lewis-Skelly 7, Madueke 6, Odegaard 6, Gyokeres 6.