Azpilicueta block key to beating City, says Shearer

Premier League Champion impressed by the Spaniard's defending in Chelsea's victory

Chelsea helped throw open the Premier League title race by inflicting Manchester City’s first defeat of the season and Cesar Azpilicueta was instrumental in that performance, says Alan Shearer.

Azpilicueta turned in an exceptional performance in the 2-0 win, alongside David Luiz.

"He made a crucial block on Leroy Sane at 0-0," said Shearer when naming Azpilicueta in his Team of the Week. "No player has made more tackles in a match this season than the 13 he did against City."

Alan Shearer's Team of the Week

Kepa Arrizabalaga (CHE) | CHE 2-0 MCI

The Chelsea goalkeeper made a vital block in the first half and is developing similarly to how David De Gea did at Manchester United.

Cesar Azpilicueta (CHE) | CHE 2-0 MCI

He made a crucial block on Leroy Sane at 0-0 and no player has made more tackles in a match this season than the 13 he did against City.

James Tarkowski (BUR) | BUR 1-0 BHA

He helped Burnley keep a rare clean sheet and scored a vital goal.

David Luiz (CHE) | CHE 2-0 MCI

The Brazilian held the Chelsea line firm in the first half at Stamford Bridge and was instrumental in both goals.

Ashley Young (MUN) | MUN 4-1 FUL

The veteran came back to form with a great goal.

Son Heung-min (TOT) | LEI 0-2 TOT

The Spurs attacking midfielder is in form, returning another goal and another assist.

Lucas Torreira (ARS) | ARS 1-0 HUD

The Uruguayan made another vital contribution and capped his display with a decisive goal.

Roberto Pereyra (WAT) | EVE 2-2 WAT

Pereyra helped to turn the match around at Goodison on Monday and was unlucky not to win it for Watford.

Felipe Anderson (WHU) | WHU 3-2 CRY

This man is on fire, impressing with yet another great goal for West Ham.

Marcus Rashford (MUN) | MUN 4-1 FUL

Rashford drove United forward with two assists and a fine strike.

Mohamed Salah (LIV) | BOU 0-4 LIV

A return to the Salah of last season with his hat-trick.

Head coach
Maurizio Sarri (CHE) | CHE 2-0 MCI

After a wobble Sarri showed how good a coach he is by masterminding the win over City.