Xabi Alonso won his first game as Chelsea boss thanks to Morgan Rogers’s debut goal and Joao Pedro’s strike after just 31 seconds of a pulsating 3-2 victory against Fulham on Monday.
Alonso has been hired to revive Chelsea after their dismal 10th place finish in the Premier League last season. The former Real Madrid boss has a point to prove after being sacked by the Spanish club following less than eight months in charge. Alonso’s side ensured he delivered a good first impression in a chaotic west London derby at Craven Cottage.
Rogers put Chelsea back in front on his debut after becoming the most expensive British player in history following his £117 million move from Aston Villa in the close-season. Palmer endured a difficult last campaign that saw him left out of England’s World Cup squad and he played as if he was determined to make amends. Keeping Rogers and Palmer fit and firing could be the key to Chelsea climbing back into contention for Champions League qualification this season. Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez came off the bench to deafening boos from Fulham fans after his provocative role in Argentina’s World Cup semi-final win over England.
