Xabi Alonso has explained Danny Welbeck’s position in the Chelsea hierarchy after the striker took his Carabao Cup tally to three goals against Leeds United.
Welbeck scored twice as Chelsea recovered from 2-0 down to secure a remarkable 6-3 victory over Leeds.
The 35-year-old also scored on his competitive debut against Luton Town in the previous round.
His cup form inevitably raises the question of whether Alonso should give him a first Premier League start against Hull City on Saturday.
The Chelsea head coach, however, has made clear that João Pedro remains ahead in the current league pecking order.
Danny Welbeck. 35-years-old. 🏴🥶 pic.twitter.com/SaiEbUzm1t
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Alonso makes Chelsea striker hierarchy clear
“Danny has done great for sure,” Alonso said after Wednesday’s victory.
“I’m happy for Danny, again, that he has scored in this competition.
“In the Premier League, Joao starts normally. He’s doing really well.”
That represents a clear assessment of Alonso’s attacking hierarchy despite Welbeck’s productive start.
João Pedro has established himself as Chelsea’s first-choice centre-forward and recently signed a new contract running until 2034.
Welbeck instead gives Alonso an experienced alternative who can come into the side without forcing Chelsea to dramatically alter their approach.
Chelsea signed the former Brighton striker during the summer, with Welbeck saying he had a “fire in my belly” after completing the move.
His early performances are backing that up.
Welbeck gives Alonso useful Chelsea option
Welbeck has started both of Chelsea’s Carabao Cup matches and scored in each.
His brace against Leeds was particularly important.
The first gave Chelsea breathing space after their rapid second-half comeback, while his late second completed the scoring at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s official match report details how Welbeck struck Chelsea’s fourth before adding their sixth in stoppage time.
Alonso is not suggesting three cup goals have suddenly displaced João Pedro.
But Welbeck is already doing exactly what Chelsea needed from their experienced summer signing.
When the first-choice striker is rested, Alonso now has another forward capable of delivering.
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