Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has praised Morgan Rogers after the forward scored in the Blues’ emphatic 5-1 victory over Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.
Rogers, who joined Chelsea from Aston Villa during the summer transfer window, scored in the third minute at Stamford Bridge as Alonso’s side delivered an impressive attacking display.
Jordan Henderson scored twice, while João Pedro also netted a brace to seal the victory. Evanilson scored Bournemouth’s only goal.
Alonso described Rogers as a complete modern footballer, pointing to his pace, strength and energy as key qualities behind his impressive start at Chelsea.
The Spanish manager said: “No, [his form isn’t a surprise] because he is young, he’s fresh, he’s strong and he’s quick – he is a very complete modern football player.”
Alonso also praised the forward’s fitness and how quickly he has settled into the squad, highlighting his growing relationships with teammates and positive influence around the club.
He said: “His availability is also very high and this is very important.
“He looks fresh and he is enjoying [his football] because he’s a great guy and is connecting very well with his team-mates, and with everyone. He is having a great impact on the team and the club.”
Rogers has scored four goals and provided four assists in eight appearances, having also found the net against Fulham, Arsenal and Hull City.
His contribution has been particularly notable given his workload over the past year.
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The attacker featured for England at the summer World Cup, where the national team finished third, leaving him with a shortened pre-season.
He has nevertheless maintained his intensity, making himself regularly available for Chelsea despite featuring in more than 70 matches for club and country since the beginning of last season.
Alonso will hope Rogers can sustain his early-season form as Chelsea look to build on their emphatic victory over Bournemouth.
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