With all the gushing praise – entirely justified, incidentally – about Eden Hazard’s rejuvenation, the rebirth of Victor Moses could be overlooked.
While Hazard’s seven-goal tally so far this season (including two gems in the 5-0 demolition of Everton) underlines how miserable his four-goal total was for last year’s entire campaign, he has got his act back together and refocused after suffering distractions last year, and is clearly enjoying himself again.
Yet Victor Moses’ return to the Bridge, recalled from West Ham where his performances and pace were so appreciated, passed almost unmentioned in the summer. Fans shrugged and talked about something else.
Moses is sharper, faster and fitter than the player sent out on perpetual loan.
Now, right at the moment the Blues need the momentum to continue, there’s another maddening international break.
Chelsea have already won almost as many home league games as they did in the entirety of last season.
And Moses deserves a goodly share of the credit. All that’s needed to complete his transformation is a repeated scoring touch.
He has slotted into the role of wing back with ease after being given the chance to shine by Tony Conte who admired him in pre-season.
Conte can’t understand why Moses wasn’t a pivotal part of the Chelsea team since signing from Wigan in 2012, but in truth he needed the development time that his stints at Liverpool (where Brendan Rogers knew his potential), Stoke and West Ham gave him.
The Nigerian is defending well, tracking back magnificently and going on the offensive with gusto. His crosses are textbook, his commitment wholehearted and his modest, diligent approach to his work commendable.
There’s a strong case to be made already for Moses to be the Blues’ player of the year. No doubt the accolade will go to Hazard, but perhaps an exception could be made and the prize shared. Victor is really that good.
The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and unless specifically stated are not necessarily those of Hammersmith & Fulham Council.
