A Weight Off Thiago's Shoulders - Brentford v Chelsea Ratings

Emiliano Martinez: Faced no clear chances or difficult set-pieces in the first half. Little he could do about Brentford's opener. 6

Wesley Fofana: A physical presence at the back, handled Brentford's long balls adequately. Substituted for Josh Acheampong in the 72nd minute. 6

Maxence Lacroix: Contained Igor Thiago for most of the match, winning most duels. However, he gave the ball away for Brentford's second goal and missed a clear chance late on. 4

Levi Colwill: A quiet performance by his usual high standards, following his omission from the England squad. 6

Pedro Neto: His well-struck effort in the 10th minute was saved. Remained lively throughout, linking well in attack and using his pace to stretch Brentford. 6

Jordan Henderson: Showed no signs of rust. Settled into the game after early boos, projecting vocal leadership on the pitch. Delivered some good corners. 7

Valentin Barco: On his first Premier League start, the Argentine impressed defensively and showed more ambition with his passing than Henderson. 6

Pep Chavarria: Produced dangerous crosses and was tidy with possession. Largely positive, save for one naive defensive lapse in the first half that resulted in a free-kick. 7

Cole Palmer: Chelsea's standout player, with much of their attack flowing through him. However, he couldn't find the decisive moment, seeing a free-kick comfortably saved and having few other clear opportunities. He also worked hard defensively. 7

Danny Welbeck: On his first Premier League start for Chelsea, the 35-year-old created a chance for Neto. He didn't contribute enough to offset the absence of the injured Joao Pedro. His 72nd-minute substitution was telling. 5

Morgan Rogers: Had a dangerous effort blocked in the penalty area before halftime. The club's record £117m signing could have done more to contest the header at the far post for Brentford's opener. He finished the match playing as a striker. 5

Substitutions:

Josh Acheampong (on 72 for Fofana): His substitution timing was unclear. As a young defender, he made little impact under the circumstances. 6

Geovany Quenda (on 72 for Welbeck): Impressively sought the ball often and attempted to create something for Chelsea, but without success. 6

Estevao Willian (on 87 for Neto): Not rated due to limited playing time.

Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli (on 87 for Barco): Not rated due to limited playing time.

Unused Substitutes: Penders, Gusto, Hato, Lavia, Gittens