Carabao Cup: ‘Great business’ – Hasselbaink hails Alonso over new signing
Chelsea Stages Comeback Victory Over Leeds in Carabao Cup
Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has praised Xabi Alonso for signing Danny Welbeck following Chelsea’s thrilling 6-3 victory over Leeds United in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.
Chelsea faced a daunting challenge early in the match, as they found themselves trailing 2-0 at home. However, the team mounted an impressive comeback to secure their place in the competition.
Cole Palmer led the charge, scoring two goals in quick succession to level the match. Pedro Neto then put Chelsea ahead in the 60th minute. Welbeck added to the home team’s tally with their fourth goal, though Leeds’ Dominic Calvert-Lewin struck back in the 75th minute, offering the visitors a glimmer of hope.
Determined to advance to the fourth round, Chelsea’s Valentin Barco calmed any nerves with the fifth goal, and Welbeck capped the game by netting his second in injury time.
Welbeck had also found the back of the net in Chelsea’s earlier Carabao Cup match against Luton Town. Hasselbaink expressed confidence in the signing, noting that Welbeck’s experience would benefit the club.
While expected to play a backup role to Chelsea’s leading striker, Joao Pedro, Hasselbaink emphasized Welbeck’s potential impact, both on the pitch and in the locker room.
In a post-match interview with Sky Sports, Hasselbaink highlighted Welbeck’s pedigree. “He has experience with Arsenal and Manchester United and performed well for Brighton,” he said. “He understands his role at Chelsea and is willing to accept it. He can contribute immensely to his teammates, providing support and engaging with them, while also bringing his desire to be involved in scoring opportunities.”
Hasselbaink concluded, “It’s a fantastic signing for the club.”
