Chelseas Joao Pedro says front three can become very dangerous under Alonso

Joao Pedro says Chelsea’s attack has made an impressive start under Xabi Alonso and believes the partnership he has formed with Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers can become even more difficult to defend as the season develops.

Chelsea have scored 16 goals in their first five matches since Alonso took charge, with Wednesday’s 6-3 win against Leeds offering further evidence of the threat posed by their forward players.

Joao Pedro has welcomed the chance to play alongside Palmer and Rogers, saying the contrasting qualities within the trio make them difficult for opponents to contain.

“Our front three have started very well,” the Brazil international told Sky Sports. “People can expect something from us because we are very focused on what we have to do. That is why we have started very sharply.”

The 23-year-old believes Alonso’s instructions have helped the three attackers establish a better understanding of one another. The Chelsea manager has encouraged them to remain close while also allowing them to move into different areas of the pitch.

“The gaffer wants us to play close to each other because he knows that if we link up, we can be very dangerous,” Joao Pedro said. “He gives us the freedom to move into every space on the pitch.”

Joao Pedro also pointed to the different ways in which each player contributes to Chelsea’s attack.

Palmer and Rogers can both score and create, while Joao Pedro provides a more traditional centre-forward option for the side.

“We are very similar in the way we think, but we are also different players. We complete each other,” he said. “For me, it is very good when you look behind and have two No 10s like Cole and Morgan. I am very happy to play with them.”

Joao Pedro added that the trio share an attacking mindset, despite having different roles within Alonso’s system.

“Cole can pass very well but he can also score. Morgan is a little bit the same so the way we think is very similar. We are all goal-oriented,” he said.

“At the same time, I am more of a No 9, Cole is more of a No 10, and Morgan is more about carrying the ball and dribbling. That is why I say we are very similar, but also different.”

Chelsea will attempt to extend their attacking momentum when they host Hull City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.