Star subs rescue Chelsea as Alonso 'takes blame'

Xabi Alonso has cautioned Chelsea, stating that simply scoring goals is not sufficient for the team to succeed. The Spanish midfielder emphasized the importance of finding a balance and learning how to win in "boring" games. Chelsea secured a thrilling 6-3 victory over Leeds United in a Carabao Cup tie, bouncing back from a 2-0 deficit to progress.

Chelsea have demonstrated real threat going forward under Alonso's management, securing four wins out of their first five games. However, the team has shown vulnerability defensively, conceding an average of two goals per game. The Blues have averaged 3.2 goals per game under Alonso, but Alonso believes the team must tighten up and improve their defensive solidity.

In his assessment, Alonso noted that there are important factors related to player connections and associations that need to be addressed. He stressed that the team needs to work on building better balance and become more solid defensively. Alonso also highlighted the need for the team to be able to win in boring games, as this is a crucial aspect of their overall performance.

During the match against Leeds, Alonso made a rotated team change and introduced his senior stars during the halftime break. Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Pedro Neto, and Reece James came on as part of a quadruple substitution, with Palmer netting two goals and Rogers contributing three assists. Alonso acknowledged that his side needed a boost during the match, particularly against a highly intense Leeds team.

He stated that they performed well in the second half, and he will take responsibility for his decisions during the first half, as well as the overall team's attitude.