Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has praised the vital role played by experienced midfielder Jordan Henderson in the Blues' commanding 5-1 win over Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge. The Brazilian also shed light on the improving synergy among the attacking trio under Xabi Alonso, reflecting on the insights gained following a recent setback.
The 36-year-old Henderson was the star of the show, netting twice and providing an assist. Pedro, who himself scored a brace in the match, expressed his admiration for the English veteran's skill and leadership:
He is a fantastic player. Jordan has spent many years in the Premier League and brings a wealth of experience. That's why he joined us — to help the team, and today he showed that he is a player of the highest calibre.
He brings experience and supports absolutely everyone: both us in attack and the lads at the back. He is truly a special player, and during this game, he showcased his best qualities.
'We are working hard': how Pedro, Palmer, and Rogers are forming a partnership
Alongside Henderson, Chelsea's attacking trio shone against the Cherries. Cole Palmer provided an assist, Morgan Rogers scored, and Joao Pedro himself found the net twice. The Brazilian explained how their partnership is beginning to function as a well-oiled machine:
We work very hard in training. Each day, we aim to get to know one another better on the pitch and improve in the details — that’s why we’re able to demonstrate this quality of play in matches.
When forwards interact closely and play tightly together, it creates the chance to dictate the outcomes of games, which we showed again. Personally, I just aim to stay fit and provide the maximum benefit to my teammates, and then we’ll see what we can achieve.
Response to the defeat against Brentford
Joao Pedro also highlighted how the break for international fixtures benefited Alonso's side, allowing them to analyse and correct the mistakes made in their painful loss to Brentford:
This was a magnificent match. The international break lasted long enough for us to take the time to thoroughly analyse and rectify the errors from the game against Brentford. The result on the scoreboard confirms that the work was worthwhile.
Of course, we always want to win without conceding, so we need to keep improving. I hope that in the next round we can play 'on zero', but overall, this was a fantastic match that brought us three crucial points.
