Xabi Alonso calls for attackers to ‘lead and inspire’ Chelsea this season

Xabi Alonso called on his attacking trio of Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Joao Pedro to lead and inspire Chelsea this season after their goals helped begin his tenure began with a 3-2 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage.Palmer produced a wonderful display in what was a chaotic match, scoring early in the second half to make it 3-1, but there was plenty to ponder defensively for Alonso who was lucky to see his team concede only twice.On this evidence he will need his forward players to step up and compensate for shortcomings in a jittery, uncertain defence. Chelsea played with a back three, a new shape after last season, and they did not inspire confidence.Fortunately for the manager, his team looked irresistible at times going forward. Joao Pedro scored after 31 seconds from Palmer’s pa