Pat Nevin believes that Chelsea’s strong performances this season are partly down to the speed of some of their top attacking players

The west London side once again underlined their
status as genuine Premier League title contenders
on Sunday when they came from a goal down to
score three second-half goals and seal a 3-1 win
at Manchester City.
That victory kept Chelsea three points clear at the
top of the table and marked their eighth win on the
spin in the top flight.
Chelsea were widely praised for the speed of their
attacks against City at The Etihad.
And Chelsea legend Nevin feels that the Blues’
impressive display was helped by the speedy play
of Pedro, Willian, Eden Hazard and Diego Costa.
Writing in his column for Chelsea’s website, Nevin
said: “You don’t always realise the speed those
guys move at, even in comparison with other
Premier League players.
“Pedro looks fast anyway – those legs move like
the roadrunner from the old cartoons. Willian
speeding away to score his goal maybe raised an
eyebrow or two but we know he is quick also and
he looks it.
“Eden Hazard at the moment when he turns on the
afterburners crushes defenders’ spirits, and that’s
before his skills are utilised. To be honest, with his
physique it is slightly surprising he is quite so fast
but Chelsea fans are aware of it now, especially
over those first 10 to 20 yards.
“The surprise of course to some degree is Diego.
Once again we know he is quick but with his
physique, power, size and walking style come on
be honest, you re amazed he is that quick. I know I
am.”