Xabi Alonso has been signing the praises of Romeo Lavia, the midfielder who was excellent against Man U on Saturday.

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Xabi Alonso had a few players to praise after Saturday’s big win over Manchester United.

Morgan Rogers got a decisive goal and Mike Penders made a crucial save. But in the end Alonso focused his praise on Romeo Lavia, who was great in midfield and completed 90 minutes for the Blues just days after doing so for the first time in a competitive game on Wednesday night.

Alonso “very happy” for Lavia

“He has done so many things right. He was always connecting the defence with the attacking players, he was able to switch the game, he has taken many right decisions, was very dynamic and competitive,” Alonso said post-game.

“So I think, not just this game but in the last two or three weeks, he has been playing at a very good level and I’m very happy for him.”

Despite proving his fitness since the start of the season, Lavia had actually been out of Alonso’s regular first team once Henderson was fit. It will be a very hard decision between them going forward – Lavia has more quality on the ball, but Alonso clearly loves the leadership and intangibles that Henderson brings.

We’re curious to see what team we see on Sunday.

In other news…

Morgan Rogers was decisive again on Saturday – but says he still wants to improve one part of his game in particular.

Aaron Anselmino was not on the bench for Chelsea’s game against Man U – but he was just behind it.