Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Chelsea's season is set to be shaped by the run of games they have before the November international break. After a mixed start to Xabi Alonso's reign, he is in need of a strong run in the Premier League to boost the bid to return to Champions League football, while a Carabao Cup tie at Liverpool could be a launchpad for early silverware. His Chelsea side showed how they're going to go about it on Saturday, blowing away Bournemouth with their attacking power.
Joao Pedro is fit again and still firing. Cole Palmer was classy and looks recovered from the issue which forced him out of England duty and buoyed by a new Chelsea contract. Morgan Rogers is in form and connecting with both in style.
And a certain Jordan Henderson has developed an ability to crack in stunning goals. Everton (a), Spurs (h), Liverpool in Carabao Cup (a), Man Utd (h), Sunderland (a). Moises Caicedo's first start brought extra punch in midfield.
There was, though, some nervousness when Bournemouth bundled one back, such has been Chelsea's poor defensive record this season. But while Alonso was preparing a double change to intervene, Chelsea scored two more. That looks like it will be their way for now, as they aim to blast their way into a position to push for success this season.Peter Smith Noni Madueke can be a frustrating player to watch at times.
Arsenal and Chelsea fans have seen it. England fans witnessed it at the World Cup. Even Mikel Arteta feels it.
"When I haven't liked so much what he was doing or it wasn't impacting the game, I made certain decisions, he has accepted them," the Arsenal manager said. But this was a display where Madueke shone - and led the way - in a slightly different role. Madueke lined up on the left wing for Arsenal against Leeds.
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