Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso was left delighted with Moises Caicedo's return following a resounding 5-1 victory against Bournemouth. The Spaniard believes the Ecuadorian's presence significantly strengthens the side and helps resolve issues in the midfield.
The 24-year-old midfielder made his first start of the season after recovering from a calf injury. Having attempted to return in August but managing only 14 minutes before sustaining another setback, Caicedo was back to full fitness and played a vital role in the emphatic win, forming a reliable partnership with 36-year-old Jordan Henderson.
After the match, Alonso stated:
With him, our midfield becomes stronger. When you control the centre of the park, the entire team looks more balanced. It's the foundation on which we can build our game.
I’m really pleased that Moises is feeling better. We knew he would be a key player for us, and today we all saw that.
Chelsea started the game with intent, leading 2-0 within just 149 seconds through goals from Morgan Rogers and Henderson.
Just after the break, Joao Pedro added a third, but Bournemouth clawed one back through Evanilson in the 51st minute. However, Chelsea quickly regained control, scoring twice more in three minutes to seal the game. Henderson and Joao Pedro each bagged a brace, while Cole Palmer, who recently signed a contract extension, provided two assists.
Another positive for the Blues was the debut of Marco Palastra. The right-back, who joined from Atalanta during the summer, finally made his appearance after recovering from injury.
However, Alonso still has reasons to be concerned, as Chelsea have now failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 22 Premier League matches.
Additionally, captain Reece James missed the match after injuring his knee in Friday's training.
Alonso admitted that his side lost control briefly after Evanilson's goal but was pleased with the players’ response.
The manager concluded:
We can take a lot of positives from today’s match going forward.
This victory allowed Chelsea to end a three-match winless run, and Alonso is hopeful that Caicedo's return and the comeback of other players can help the team regain stability.
