Xabi Alonso sends clear message as Chelsea beat Crawley Town in pre-season friendly
Here’s everything we know as Chelsea took part in a friendly against Crawley Town.
Xabi Alonso kickstarted his Chelsea era with a 3-1 victory over Crawley Town in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Cobham.
The private fixture gave the new manager an ideal opportunity to introduce his tactical ideas and build squad fitness before heading off on an overseas tour.
New signings and returning players immediately made their mark, with Jamie Gittens opening his summer account before Liam Delap and Emmanuel Emegha found the back of the net.
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Xabi Alonso isn’t afraid to turn to youth at Chelsea
Alonso also heavily utilised academy talent, giving vital minutes to youngsters like Reggie Walsh, Reggie Watson, and exciting new arrival Dastan Satpayev.
Ryan Kavuma-McQueen, Calvin Diakite and Genesis Antwi also played, as well as Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli and Landon Emenalo starting the game, which had the score of 1-0 at half-time.
The message is clear from Alonso. If you’re good enough, age is just a number.
Chelsea will play another private match against Bromley on Thursday, giving Alonso another opportunity to look at his players before the trip to Australia.
The Blues are scheduled to kick off their pre-season tour against the Western Sydney Wanderers on the 28th of July, with tickets still available for around £44.
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