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Former Liverpool captain and TNT Sports pundit Steven Gerrard has praised Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandes’ dominant performance in the FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United at Wembley.
With Chelsea leading 1-0 after more than 80 minutes, Gerrard emphasized that the Argentine’s tactical intelligence and work rate had been the deciding factor in the contest so far.
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Wearing the captain’s armband, Fernandes opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a superb assist from Pedro Neto, helping propel the Blues to the final.
Steven Gerrard praises Enzo Fernandes
Speaking on TNT Sport, Gerrard was quick to stress that Fernandes’ influence goes far beyond his key goals.
Pundits noted how the World Cup winners set the tempo and found space against a compact Leeds defence.
He said (via BBC Sport):
“I have to say Enzo Fernandes has been really good from the start. He keeps moving up on their flanks and behind them. He pounces on second balls.
“He made a nice pass to Joao Pedro earlier so he definitely had an impact on the game. Given the situation on the day and the way the team is developing, this is a big goal for Chelsea.”
Enzo ends Chelsea’s goal drought
This goal was a symbolic moment for both the player and the club. This ended Chelsea’s collective goal drought against Premier League-level opposition, which had lasted more than 500 minutes.
The match also marks the first of Callum MacFarlane’s second interim role of the season following the recent sacking of Liam Rosenior.
Former academy coach MacFarlane, who made a name for himself in the draw with Manchester City earlier this year, appears to have unleashed a more attacking side in Fernandes.
MacFarlane pushed the midfielder into an attacking position, allowing Enzo to score his 13th goal of the season in all competitions.
As the clock ticks towards full-time at Wembley, Chelsea fans will be hoping Fernandes’ “phenomenal” performance will be enough to secure a ticket to the FA Cup final.
