Alonso hails Neto’s versatility after Chelsea forward’s double at Everton

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso praised Pedro Neto’s adaptability after the Portugal international scored both goals in Sunday’s 2-0 victory over Everton.

Neto struck twice in the second half at the Hill Dickinson Stadium to secure the points for Chelsea and take his total for the season to four goals in all competitions.

The 26-year-old has operated in a variety of roles for Alonso, who highlighted the range of qualities Neto offers in a Chelsea squad containing significant competition for starting places.

“You can call him whatever – winger, wing-back, attacker, defender – because he can do many things,” Alonso said.

“Pedro has great qualities. He’s always a threat, has a great competitive level, he can run, do one-v-ones, can score goals.

“He’s so competitive. When he’s close to the action, he’s a threat against any full-back. When he’s on the last line or in between, he connects well with the players around, with Joao (Pedro), with Cole (Palmer), with Josh (Acheampong) as well. They worked really well, and I’m happy he could score.”

Neto’s performance provided a decisive contribution as Chelsea claimed victory away from home, with his two second-half goals settling the contest.

Since joining Chelsea from Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, Neto has made 112 appearances for the club.

He has scored 23 goals and supplied 20 assists during that time, underlining the attacking contribution Alonso believes he can make from several positions.