Xabi Alonso enjoyed a winning start as a Chelsea manager after his side registered a thrilling 6-4 victory over Western Sydney Wanderers in a pre-season friendly match with Joao Pedro starring in the clash as he scored a memorable Hat-trick.
The News Chronicle reports that Joao Pedro was the first choice as he netted a hat-trick within nine minutes to show his hunger to score after being left out of the Brazil World Cup squad. Alonso has opened up on his new signing’s eagerness and enthusiasm to play for the club. Meanwhile, teenage striker Dastan Satpaev has scored Chelsea’s opening goal in an eye-catching display before officially joining the club.
Liam Delap was yet again disappointing and as a result, new rumors regarding his exit are emerging. It is understood that Chelsea is looking to sign an experienced striker as they are close to making a deal with Danny Welbeck. It is also expected that Jordan Henderson will follow, as the Blues seek to bring in more experienced players.
In the meantime, Alonso has deployed a 4-2-3-1 system as he gave a starting position to a few of his academy players. Young players including Reggie Walsh, Mahdi Nicoll Jazuli and Reggie Watson impressed alongside winger Jamie Gittens, whose strong preseason form continued with another goal, giving Chelsea fans plenty of reasons to be optimistic ahead of the new campaign.
