Xabi Alonso has praised Pedro Neto’s versatility after the Portuguese international scored twice in Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday. Neto scored in the second minute of the restart and again in the 90th to deny the Toffees an unbeaten start to their Premier League season.
The 26-year-old operated at right wing-back on the flank, ahead of a back three of Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill. Former England midfielder Owen Hargreaves later named him Man of the Match.
Speaking after the game, Alonso said:
“You can call him whatever. Winger, wing-back, attacking position, defending, he can do many things. Today, he’s done well, he’s so competitive. When he’s close to the actions, he’s a threat against any other full-back.”
Neto’s versatility has proved important to Chelsea this season. Everton captain James Tarkowski admitted his side expected Chelsea to go wide and pull the ball back, but they failed to stop the opening goal. The win sends the Blues up the table as they welcome Tottenham to Stamford Bridge next weekend.
Pedro Neto Reaches Personal Milestone Against Everton
Neto’s double against Everton marks the first time he has scored twice in a single Premier League game. The feat also comes in his 187th appearance in the competition. It is the third Premier League goal of the season for the Portuguese winger. He opened his account in a thrilling 4-3 victory over Brighton in August.
Neto has also been one of Chelsea’s most creative outlets on the right this term. Going into the game, he had created the most shot-creating actions per 90 minutes in the furthest forward zone on the right. The future under Xabi Alonso looks bright for Neto, who, at different periods over the years, has been a source of annoyance for many Chelsea fans.
Those fans will now be pleased with his output in attack, especially alongside players like Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer.