Pedro Neto praised Chelsea's two goalkeepers, Emiliano Martinez and Mike Penders, as the Blues ended their poor defensive run in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Everton.

Neto hogged the limelight after scoring the two goals that sealed the win, but Chelsea’s strong defensive display as a team undeniably played a big part in the win.

This was Chelsea’s long-awaited first league clean sheet this season. It also ended the club’s 22-game run without a clean sheet, which stretched back to January.

After the game, Neto highlighted the importance of the team's defensive performance against Everton.

“We need a clean sheet to be honest,” the Portugal international told TNT Sports.

“I think we did a very good game. Emi deserved this, Mike as well.”

Martinez had to leave the pitch on a stretcher after bravely going for the ball to defend his goal in the second half. He made four saves before the younger Penders replaced him, and he did well to finish the job.

Penders had already featured twice for Chelsea this season, but both were in the Carabao Cup, and this was his Premier League debut.

It remains unclear whether Martinez will be allowed back in time for next week’s game against Tottenham Hotspur, but Chelsea should be confident in Penders’ ability in goal.

For Neto, the brace brings his tally to four in all competitions this season, in addition to one assist. Despite playing further back as a wing-back under Alonso, he remains a threat to the opposition with his runs into the box.

His ability to seamlessly slot in as a fourth attacker when needed also makes him a very valuable asset to the team. Chelsea’s decision to offer him a new contract last month, after rumours of a potential summer exit, made a lot more sense given his performance.

Neto revealed that his improved composure in front of goal is partly due to the time he spent on international duty with Portugal. This shows that international breaks could also benefit clubs.

“This comes a little bit from the new coach of the national team,” the winger explained. 

“He said when you are near the area you need to pass it to the goal, so really happy with that.”

About the winning run, he added: “It's really important. We know it's tough to play away; even at home, there are no easy games. 

“We came here with personality, with good intentions to win the match, and really happy with the result.”

With this win, Chelsea have now climbed into the top five of the Premier League table. 

They will have to shift their attention to the London derby against Spurs at Stamford Bridge. It will then be followed by a visit to Liverpool for a Carabao Cup fourth-round tie and another home fixture against Manchester United.