Xabi Alonso reveals Jordan Henderson trained on free-kicks during international break

Xabi Alonso says Jordan Henderson spent the international break practising free-kicks after scoring directly from one in Chelsea’s 5-1 Premier League win over Bournemouth.

Chelsea produced a commanding performance at Stamford Bridge in the sixth round of the Premier League to move up to fourth place with 10 points. Bournemouth remain 18th on three points.

“I would not describe our match against Bournemouth as crazy, but it went through different phases,” the Spanish manager told BBC Sport. “We controlled the game well after conceding a goal, but our victory was deserved.”

Alonso also highlighted Henderson’s work during the recent break in domestic football.

“Jordan Henderson used the international break to practise taking free-kicks,” he said.

The England player scored Chelsea’s goal from a direct free-kick as his work on the training ground paid off.

Chelsea conceded once in the victory, but Alonso believes a clean sheet is close.

“We will win without conceding a goal soon,” he added. “We came very close to doing that and it will happen sooner or later.”

Alonso was also pleased that Chelsea had extended Cole Palmer’s contract and spoke positively about the midfielder’s long-term prospects at the club.

“I am extremely happy that Cole Palmer has extended his contract,” he said. “He is a top-class player and will remain with us for many years. He can become one of those players who are remembered for many years.”