Christian Pulisic was only handed a brief cameo against West Ham yesterday — but it was all Chelsea’s American hero needed to secure three precious points. 

With the Blues seemingly set for another disappointing result at Stamford Bridge, the attacker joined the fray in the 76th minute with the game deadlocked at 0-0. 

And after Jorginho's weak penalty was saved by Lukasz Fabianski, Pulisic spared his team-mate's blushes by popping up just before full-time to slot home Marcos Alonso’s cutback. 

The United States international, 23, said: "It was a massive goal. We had so much pressure on them for most of the game but we couldn’t get that breakthrough, so I am happy I was able to help out.

"I always want to be on the pitch to help my team and I am glad I got the opportunity. We played a good match and got our deserved goal in the end.

"I needed to come in and make a difference and prove I want to be playing. I am happy I did that."

Having lost their previous three outings at Stamford Bridge, Thomas Tuchel's men went into the clash with West Ham in desperate need of a boost. 

The Blues bossed possession but appeared to be heading for just a share of the spoils until Pulisic intervened in the 90th minute. 

He added: "West Ham defended very well. They play with a low block and sometimes it is hard to break through. Sometimes you have to be patient and in the second half we stepped it up.

"It feels good. We want to be secure in the top four. There are still some matches left and this was a good step in the right direction. 

"It was really good. We needed a home win and obviously it feels great in front of our fans. 

"With some big league games to come, then the FA Cup final, this is a good boost for us."

Chelsea can strengthen their grip on third place in the Premier League table by beating Manchester United at Old Trafford on Thursday.