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Having proved an astute signing in the opening weeks of the Premier League season, Cesc Fabregas turned out for Chelsea in his first Champions League clash for the Blues when they hosted Group G rivals Schalke.
Here, Standard Sport analyses the impact the former Barcelona and Arsenal man had on his European bow at Stamford Bridge.
WORK ETHIC
Fabregas's tenacity in the challenge led directly to Eden Hazard feeding the Spaniard to score on 11 minutes, although he was lucky not to be penalised for going in hard on Schalke's Max Meyer. He was then caught in possession for Schalke's equaliser, and his influence on the game waned significantly as the Germans started to get back into the tie.
GOAL THREAT
Played much further forward than in Saturday's league win over Swansea and tucked away his first Chelsea goal to put the hosts ahead. Should have doubled his tally nine minutes before the break but thrashed at a chance when picked out free on the penalty spot - firing his effort high over Ralf Fahrmann's crossbar.
Chelsea v Schalke - player ratings
CROWD REACTION
Chelsea's faithful have already warmed to the former Arsenal captain and his goal and animated celebration, deserved given his early performances, will see that bond continue to grow.
OVERALL
Looked to be on course to being the catalyst for another Chelsea win but, after getting away with a foul in the build-up to his first goal, was guilty of missing a sitter and was also slightly at fault for Julian Draxler's equaliser. Will want to be more effective in an advanced role in the future and is likely to find himself back in a deeper position for the match at Manchester City on Sunday.
