Player Ratings - Middlesbrough (a)

Last updated : 07 October 2003 By Liam Corbett

Carlo Cudicini - Un-fair criticism from Home fans after clashes with Mills and Christie. Coped well when called upon and not at fault for goal.  8

Glen Johnson - Rode his luck in final minute with tackle from behind in his own area, but got away with it! Amazing confidence for a 19 year old. Looked good going forward and back, and another Premiership game under his belt.  8

John Terry - Almost carried Huth through the first half at least. Caught out once when Christie blazed over, but otherwise solid as usual. Unlucky not to score with header that came back of the woodwork.  7

Robert Huth - Never looked comfortable. Looked nervous and un-decided at times. Rocket of a free kick in a second half where he did start to become composed towards the end. Still young!  6

Wayne Bridge - Not as spectacular as Johnson, but as comfortable in a Chelsea shirt as I can remember. Crossing was a bit wayward after getting into great positions, but could claim a hand in the winner. Mr Consistency indeed!  7

Jesper Gronkjaer - Very dangerous and frightening pace in first half, but went missing in the second. Gets into great positions and has improved a lot, but crossing and final ball is still appalling for an international player hoping to play in the Champions League.  6

Frank Lampard - Another great solid performance from Frank. Very quickly becoming the heart of the team, driving forward and back, and putting in some terrific challenges. Best tackle of game on Boateng after 17 minutes, and the ball was in the net in under 10 seconds! 8

Claude Makelele - Does what he is paid to do. Fills in holes, gets the ball down and provides great cover for the defence. Allows Lampard more freedom. Only worry may well be his over willingness to impress, resulting in a few rash tackles and challenges. 8

Damien Duff - By far our best player. Set up both goals, and the £17 million price tag is starting to look a snip in today’s market. Surely he can't be left out again Claudio ?  9 ** MOM **

Eidur Gudjohnsen - Did well in the first half. Looked hungry and eager to make his point. Took his goal extremely well, and was a tad unlucky to come off towards the end. Given no service in second half. Another selection headache.  7

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink - Did his fair share of running and working, it just never happened for him. Possibly his yellow card had something to do with his replacing at half time. Had to bring on Hernan Crespo, what a shambles!  6

SUBS:

Hernan Crepo - Took his goal well. Should've contributed to another but for a possible greed in front of goal when Eidur was clear - but hey, he's a striker! Not fully fit, but what a treat when he is! 8

Joe Cole - Not given enough time to fairly judge

Adrian Mutu - As Cole