Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall silenced his critics with a moment of brilliance in Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League clash against Copenhagen, weaving past five opponents to score the opening goal in their 1-0 victory.

The 26-year-old midfielder faced criticism for his first-half performance, and some fans were surprised that he remained on the pitch after the break.

However, Enzo Maresca’s decision to keep faith in his former Leicester City player proved to be a masterstroke.

Dewsbury-Hall’s goal, his third in the competition, came at a crucial moment, giving Chelsea a two-goal cushion on aggregate and easing the tension at Stamford Bridge. While all of his goals since joining Chelsea have come in the Conference League, this was undoubtedly his most important yet.

With the Blues now through to the quarter-finals, Dewsbury-Hall’s display could be the spark he needs to cement his role in Maresca’s midfield for the remainder of the season.