While Mikel was introduced into the game at the Hawthorns in the 84th minute, it was the new signing Pedro Rodriguez who stole the show by scoring a goal and an assist to help 10-man Chelsea to a nervy 2-3 win over West Brom.
Pedro scored and set up Diego Costa as Jose Mourinho’s side went 2-0 up in the first half.
But West Brom did give a fight as they attempted to have a share of the spoils with the Blues.
Having earlier missed a penalty, James Morrison scored twice in response for West Brom. But despite Terry’s red card for a last-man foul, Cesar Azpilicueta’s first league goal proved enough to give Chelsea a first victory of the Premier League season.
It was Chelsea’s first win at West Brom in five attempts and saw the defending champions belatedly find their gear after a 2-2 draw with Swansea City and last weekend’s 3-0 thrashing in the hands of Manchester City.