Willian goal gives Maurizio Sarri first win in Europe

Willian's early goal hands new Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri first European victory in 1-0 win over PAOK on Thursday night at the Toumba Stadium in the Europa League Group L opener.

The Brazil international who captain the dethroned Premier League for the encounter scored in the seventh minute after being played through on goal by Ross Barkley who impressed in Thessaloniki.

Former Napoli manager Sarri named a strong starting lineup, including the likes of N'Golo Kante, Jorginho and Alvaro Morata as Cesc Fabregas Victor Moses, Ruben Loftus Cheek Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ethan Ampadu return match day squad.

Willian's early strike sees him notched fourth goals in his last five European matches followed a surging run from England international but Alvaro Morata has so many opportunities in the first half to extend Chelsea the lead.

Ex-Shakhtar Donetsk forward also waste plenty goalscoring chance as the Blues went in search of a second. Marcos Alonso missed a good second-half chance as they looked to double their lead, while substitute Olivier Giroud forced a smart save late on.

Pedro Rodriguez was taken off in injury time, having seemingly injured both his shoulder and wrist after an awkward fall and collision with the PAOK 'keeper.