Alonso takes responsibility as Chelsea recover from Leeds scare to win 6-3

Xabi Alonso accepted responsibility for Chelsea’s poor start against Leeds United after his side overturned a two-goal deficit to win 6-3 and reach the fourth round of the English League Cup.

Chelsea endured their worst first-half performance since Alonso became manager after making nine changes to the starting line-up. Leeds United took advantage of the lack of cohesion, controlled the opening period and went into the break with a two-goal advantage.

Tarik Muharemovic put Leeds ahead before Brenden Aaronson doubled their lead shortly after the second half began.

Alonso responded by making four substitutions at half-time, bringing on Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Pedro Neto and Reece James. The changes transformed the match as Chelsea scored six times in the second half to complete a convincing comeback.

“I take the blame and responsibility for what happens,” Alonso said after the game. “I have to be able to help the team better so they do not have to carry that responsibility.”

He added: “After that, you have to react and think about what is best for the team.”

Alonso also acknowledged that the changes he made were part of the nature of the game.

“The changes I had to make are part of the match,” he said.

Chelsea’s substitutes made a decisive impact. Palmer scored twice, Neto added another goal and Rogers created four goals from open play before being replaced.

Asked about the contrast between the performances of the starters and the substitutes, Alonso said: “I know I probably need to make the right decisions so they can show their best level, and that is something I will analyse and learn from after the match.”

The match also featured several young players and squad members. Danny Welbeck started and scored twice, while Valentin Barco scored Chelsea’s fifth goal despite having been involved in conceding Leeds’ second.

Chelsea’s response after the interval secured their progress, but Alonso admitted the opening 45 minutes had exposed problems in his team’s balance and preparation after the extensive changes to the side.