Bakayoko's carelessness, sending off set Chelsea up for defeat at Watford

Chelsea's miserable start to 2018 continued with a limp 4-1 Premier League defeat at Watford on Monday night.

The visitors never got going, with the home side displaying far more energy and desire from the first whistle. Richarlison was causing problems for the Blues, but it was one of their own, Tiemoue Bakayoko, who was their biggest threat. The Frenchman couldn't put a foot right, and his sending off after 30 minutes, although exceptionally harsh, removed him from further humiliation. Referee Mike Dean then awarded Watford a spot kick after some Broadway-style theatrics from Gerard Deulofeu, and Troy Deeney gave his side a deserved lead.

The second half was no better until Antonio Conte finally decided to change his approach and introduce Olivier Giroud. With Eden Hazard enjoying more space and Watford retreating, the Belgian scored a wonderful equaliser with eight minutes remaining. Any relief was short-lived as Daryl Janmaat restored their lead before Deulofeu wrapped it up. There was still time for Chelsea to be further embarrassed when Roberto Pereyra fired in a fourth in injury time.

Positives

Hazard's goal. Otherwise, none.

Negatives

Every player was guilty of giving the ball away cheaply from the start of the game and created unnecessary pressure for themselves. Failed to match Watford's commitment until the closing stages, by which time it was too late. There were few discernible patterns of play and hardly any moments of invention. And there was none of the old Chelsea rage and anger at a game getting away from them. This team is far too nice.

Manager rating out of 10

3 -- With the team crying out for a focal point, it was bizarre to see Hazard lead the line again with Giroud fit enough to be on the bench. Not introducing the Frenchman once reduced to 10 men was equally baffling. Did eventually switch to a back four and went more direct, which resulted in the equaliser, but it was too little, too late. Conte will always be a legend for winning the title, but there now seem to be too many excuses and not enough self-motivation. His body language is a world away from where it was last season.