Jorrel Hato is still adjusting to his new position, but the British media felt he performed well in Monday night's 2-3 win over Fulham. The Netherlands international started at left wing-back in Xabi Alonso's system.
Xabi Alonso has been Chelsea manager since the start of the summer after Real Madrid sacked him last season. The Spaniard has shaped the London side to his liking.
At Craven Cottage, Chelsea lined up in a 1-5-2-2-1 formation. Hato operated as the advanced player on the left side of the defence.
Goals from João Pedro, Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer gave the Blues the win, although errors from goalkeeper Roberto Sánchez still made for a tense finish.
Hato started and went off after 65 minutes. Pep Chavarria, who joined from Rayo Vallecano this summer, replaced him.
Even though Hato had not played at left wing-back before, every newspaper gave him a pass mark. “Played in an unfamiliar wing-back role, had a promising dribble early in the game and adapted well,” said the BBC. The broadcaster gave him a 6.
The Independent were even more positive about Hato's display. “Notably good going forward with surging runs (one of which almost led to an assist for a fourth goal). At times somewhat uncertain defensively, but still decent: 7.”
Football London and The Standard also gave the former Ajax player a 6. “The Dutchman drove forward with the ball from left-back whenever he could. He was not eye-catching, but competed well,” said the former outlet.