Photo by Brendon Thorne/Getty Images
Photo by Brendon Thorne/Getty Images
Xabi Alonso was given his first taste of Premier League opposition when Chelsea took on Tottenham in pre-season, and the manager’s approach to domestic games may have been revealed.
Chelsea’s 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers was not one that gave too many clues to Blues fans who were looking to get a gist of what to expect under Alonso.
The Spaniard started plenty of young players in that game, however went for a far stronger side when they took on Spurs.
Xabi Alonso may have revealed his Premier League tactics in pre-season friendly vs Tottenham
While the likes of Reece James, Moises Caicedo and new signing Morgan Rogers have not yet emerged, Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro were amongst those back into the starting side.
After plenty of discussion over the formation the Blues would play, Alonso sent Chelsea out in a 4-2-3-1, rather than the three-back system he used at Bayer Leverkusen.
Chelsea FC v Tottenham: Sydney Super Cup
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Marco Palestra and Jorrel Hato started at full-back, and while the duo did attack they were more concerned with their defensive duties, allowing the wingers to produce the big moments.
This is good news for Reece James, who many are doubting can have the influence as an attacking full-back due to his varying injury issues.
Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana started at the heart of defence together, although the England international is likely to be partnered by Maxence Lacroix when the new season gets underway.
The Blues didn’t exactly press hard, but went in numbers when they decided to, including both central midfielders, in this case Romeo Lavia and Dario Essugo.
Some supporters at Stamford Bridge won’t like this, but playing out from the back is going to remain a feature under Alonso too.
With risk comes reward though, and their first goal from Estevao Willian came as a result of Lavia receiving possession on the edge of his own box and advancing play.