Better From Improving Pedro

Two significant contributions from Pedro started and finished Chelsea's scoring spree against a decent Bournemouth team, enabling the Premiership leaders to record a record-breaking twelfth consecutive Premiership win. The erratic Spanish maestro first of all produced a sumptuous finish halfway through the first half to break the deadlock. He then wrapped up the proceedings with a breakaway run and shot which caused a deflection from Cook that left the unfortunate Boruc stranded.

Three-nil was a bit harsh on the Cherries, but they are the latest in a long line of teams that are finding Chelsea's defences to be impenetrable whilst also being stung by a number of lethal Chelsea attacks.

The Blues look every inch the most potent counter-attacking force in the country, and the manager's questionable decision to play Hazard and Pedro and Willian as his attacking trio was fully vindicated. It gives rise to the theory that teams can be overcome without a recognised striker. Speaking of which, the deadly Costa will return for the visit of Stoke City, replacing Pedro who incurred a fifth yellow card, thereby joining the suspension merry-go-round. The invaluable Kante will also be back in action on Saturday afternoon. We failed to beat Stoke once in three attempts last year, so the size of the forthcoming task should not be underestimated. They may have capitulated against Liverfools on Tuesday evening, but they will be resolved to make amends against the Premiership favourites.

CHELSEA 3 Bournemouth 0; half time: 1-0

CHELSEA goal scorers: Pedro; Hazard (penalty); Cook (own goal)

CHELSEA team: Courtois; Azpilicueta; Luiz; Fabregas; Matic; Cahill; Alonso; Moses; Willian; Hazard; Pedro. Used substitutes: Chalobah; Aina; Batshuayi

CHELSEA leading scorers:

Costa thirteen goals

Hazard nine goals (including two penalties)

Moses four goals

Pedro four goals

Batshuayi three goals

Fabregas three goals

Willian three goals

Cahill two goals