Xabi Alonso may have found his preferred midfield partnership after Jordan Henderson and Moisés Caicedo impressed in Chelsea’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Bournemouth.
Henderson dictated the tempo with his composed passing and capped off an outstanding display with two goals, while Caicedo looked sharp as he continued to build up his fitness following a lengthy injury lay-off. Their complementary performances could give Alonso a strong foundation to build around in midfield.
The manager highlighted the qualities both players bring to the team and explained how well they complement each other in midfield.
"They give presence, they give stability as well. They are going to be the ones that are helping the rest. As well, defensively, they give good balance. It's fundamental we get that area strong."
He had a smile on his face throughout the game as Chelsea comfortably saw out the result, with the pair in midfield capable of dominating their opponents.
"Both, in terms of qualities, are different. In terms of the positioning, they help each other well."
Moisés Caicedo’s positioning was something Chelsea had sorely missed in recent games, helping cut off passing lanes into the opposition striker. His pressing was also crucial in the build-up to at least two of the goals.
Caicedo managed 70 minutes as he continues to build his fitness, which was encouraging news for Romeo Lavia too. The Belgian offers similar qualities in midfield and will be keen to remain part of Alonso’s first-team plans.
His comments, coupled with this performance, could leave Valentín Barco as the final back-up option, with Reece James and Malo Gusto likely to feature in midfield only as a last resort.
Henderson is unlikely to be a long-term solution or play week in, week out, but he could fill the role in the short term. Looking further ahead, Chelsea should still have their eye on Alex Scott as a potential addition to the midfield.
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