The Blues dominated possession right from the off when we hosted Everton at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League, especially during an impressive first half.

It was during the opening 45 minutes that the game was ultimately decided, via a stunning strike from Nicolas Jackson, and although we had to work hard to hold that lead at times after the break, there was no question we had done enough to be worthy winners.

‘We won the game and we are happy,’ said Maresca. ‘I think in the first half we controlled the game, we dominated, we created chances, we conceded nothing.

‘Then in the second half we dropped a little bit, but that was part of the game. It was a little bit of a weird game but the good thing was that we were strong, nasty enough when we needed to be like that.

‘So overall I think we deserved to win the game and we are happy.’

The game’s only goal came from a quick attack after winning possession in a dangerous area, and Maresca felt that highlighted how this Blues side is improving in understanding when to play patiently with possession and when to go more direct.

‘We’re going to get better and better because the players are going to understand better and better how to play different games,’ he continued.

‘Against teams that press higher there is more space we can attack quick. Against teams with a low block it is more difficult, but we need to learn that. For sure this is the reason why I have said many times that the fans have to trust us because this team is getting better and better. It’s a journey, they are going to learn things.

‘At this stage of the season the result is the main thing. But for us also the way is important. I think today we won the game but for most of the game it was our team on the ball and off the ball and that is also important for us.

‘For the goal it was easy to attack quick because it was from pressing a goal-kick, so in the moment you recover the ball the first option is always in front and it was a good goal.'

It certainly was, as Jackson was found quickly and turned to fire in an unstoppable shot from outside the box, netting his 10th Premier League goal of the season and first of 2025 in some style, helping justify our head coach’s faith in the striker after his return from injury.

‘We have said many times that we don’t have doubts for the ones who for part of the season struggle a little bit, like Nico, like Cole [Palmer], like Robert [Sanchez]. It’s the moment you have to support them even more.

‘Nico found the goal today. Hopefully Cole soon can score goals, but I thought his performance today was very good. He sacrificed and was pressing well. It’s just a matter of time for all of them and for sure they are going to help us.’