"Aura To Influence" - Xabi Alonso Praises Key Man Following Chelsea Debut | OneFootball

Chelsea have made a 100 per cent start to life in the Premier League under Xabi Alonso.

Chelsea continue to march on in the Premier League despite a minor scare on Sunday afternoon, as the Blues beat Brighton & Hove Albion 4-3 at Stamford Bridge.

Following the 3-2 victory over Fulham and the 2-0 victory against Luton Town in the Carabao Cup, the Xabi Alonso era finally got underway in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge after a long wait.

One player who has joined in surprising circumstances is 33-year-old goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. The former Aston Villa man was formally announced on the morning of Chelsea’s victory over the Seagulls, finalising a £7.5 million move, and later started the match to the surprise of many.

Since featuring in the FIFA World Cup final defeat to Spain, Martínez hadn’t played a single minute of pre-season and had only taken part in one session at the club’s Cobham training facility. Despite not keeping a clean sheet, he brought a calmness Chelsea supporters hadn't been used to seeing from Robert Sánchez in goal. His ability to command the box and play the ball long, while also making intelligent decisions when choosing the best distribution option, was particularly noticeable.

Taking the number 26 shirt, previously worn by club legend John Terry, comes with a degree of pressure. Despite conceding three goals, none could be considered Martínez’s fault. Compare that to Monday night’s west London derby victory over Fulham, where Sánchez was responsible for shifting the momentum as well as conceding the opener.

Xabi Alonso was full of praise for Chelsea’s latest summer signing after the victory. The new boss said, as quoted by Chelsea’s in-house media team: “I spoke with him yesterday (Saturday) and we talked about the game and our team. He felt ready, and I don’t have to tell him many things for him to perform.”

Alonso also spoke highly of Martínez in terms of what he brings to the dressing room. As a World Cup and Europa League winner, he knows what it takes to win at the top level, and it is hoped that his presence will help Chelsea do just that.

Alonso continued: “Day by day, we will feel this presence because he has this charisma, this aura to influence and have a very positive connection with the rest of the team.”

With one goalkeeper through the door, another will soon be on his way out. Robert Sánchez has agreed to a loan move to Serie A side Como, managed by former Blue Cesc Fàbregas. He will team up with Trevoh Chalobah, who made a permanent switch to Italy for a fee in excess of £25 million, plus add-ons. Meanwhile, Mike Penders looks set to deputise as the number two.

Chelsea will be hoping Martínez continues his positive influence as the Blues face an early top-of-the-table clash against Arsenal, a former club of the Argentine. The Blues then host Leeds United at Stamford Bridge in the third round of the Carabao Cup before welcoming newly promoted Hull City on September 12.