Chelsea finally returned to the Premier League’s top four with a comfortable win over strugglers Wolves.

Enzo Maresca’s side had gone five league matches without a win but took the lead when VAR awarded a Tosin Adarabio effort, originally adjudged for offside.

Chelsea then went into their shells and Wolves looked the better side for a period, taking advantage in first-half stoppage time when Matt Doherty headed in from a corner after a mistake by Robert Sanchez.

Mark Cucurella puts Chelsea back in front! 💫 pic.twitter.com/2aWb8gculH

– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 20, 2025

But the hosts improved greatly in the second half – if still far from their best – and Mark Cucurella and Noni Maduke scored in quick succession.

The win moves Chelsea above Newcastle and Manchester City and leaves Wolves above the relegation zone on goal difference.

Chelsea exploited Wolves’ Achilles heel

Wolves have now scored 19 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League this season – the worst ever record of any team.

Twice his weakness was shown at Stamford Bridge. First, a half clear corner was countered by captain Reece James and Tossi did well to keep control before sidefooting in his first league goal for Chelsea.

The flag was raised but Mathias Cunha was slow to clear his area and the former Fulham man was at his side.

Noni Maduke loves to score against Wolves! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/RXOICqc95Y

– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 20, 2025

That mistake was nothing compared to the one Sanchez managed late in the half, though, when Cunha spilled a corner at the feet of Doherty who couldn’t miss from a few yards.

It was Sanchez’s fourth mistake to lead to a goal this season – only Ipswich’s Arijant Muric (5) has scored more.

Chelsea’s second goal was the pick of the night, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall making a good run on his first league start for Chelsea, flicking in a cross that Cucurella chested down and headed in.

And moments later Trevoh Chalaboh rose well to meet Cole Palmer’s free-kick to ensure Maduke was right on the line.

Chalobah impressed in his first start since being recalled from Crystal Palace but it remains to be seen where his long-term future lies.

Wolves faded badly in the second half and need to find points soon to keep their heads above water. They face Arsenal on Saturday.