Chelsea player ratings vs Middlesbrough: Cole Palmer can’t hit a barn door while Moises Caicedo and Levi Colwill underperform as damaging Carabao Cup semi-final first leg defeat marks new low for Mauricio Pochettino

Chelsea were unconvincing in their last cup outing against lesser opposition, with the 4-0 scoreline against Preston at the weekend certainly flattering. But things were far more dismal against Middlesbrough on Tuesday night.

The Blues were frustrated going forward from the first minute, but it was a defensive error that would turn out to to be their downfall.

Their high line was exploited down the right early doors, as Isaiah Jones held off the out-of-position Levi Colwill to cut back for Hayden Hackney. The 'Boro midfielder swept home with the composure so sorely lacking in the Blues' frontline - as one player in particular endured a night to forget.

Deployed in a new-look false nine role, Cole Palmer squandered three huge chances in the first half, with Mauricio Pochettino's side again lacking a cutting edge despite the switch-up in formation.

Chelsea's frustration continued in the second half as they failed to break down a resolute Middlesbrough defence, completing yet another toothless display that has characterised so many of their games this season. Work to do, and then some, in the second leg at Stamford Bridge in a fortnight's time.

GOAL rates Chelsea's players from the Riverside Stadium...