Former Chelsea forward, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, has hailed Xabi Alonso for his decision to recruit former England striker Danny Welbeck.
The praise came after Chelsea’s impressive 6-3 victory over Leeds United in an exhilarating Carabao Cup match on Wednesday.
The Blues appeared to be on the verge of elimination from the competition as they found themselves 2-0 down at home against Leeds. However, they mounted a remarkable comeback to secure a 6-3 triumph.
Cole Palmer netted two goals within three minutes to equalize the match before Pedro Neto put Chelsea in the lead at the hour mark.
CAF Champions League: Rivers United seek fans support ahead San Pedro clash
CAF Champions League: Rangers arrive Lome for Sobemap clash
Ballon d’Or 2026: I’ve no doubt – Feyenoord manager picks winner of award
Welbeck scored the fourth goal for the home side, but Dominic Calvert-Lewin gave Leeds a glimmer of hope with a goal in the 75th minute.
Chelsea were determined to advance to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup, with summer signing Valentin Barco easing any tension by scoring the hosts’ fifth goal, followed by Welbeck’s second of the evening deep into injury time.
Welbeck also found the net in Chelsea’s earlier Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town, and Hasselbaink is confident that he will prove to be a wise acquisition for the Blues.
While Welbeck is expected to primarily serve as a backup to the in-form Chelsea striker Joao Pedro, Hasselbaink still believes he can be a significant presence at Stamford Bridge, both on and off the field.
When asked about Chelsea’s decision to bring in Welbeck, Hasselbaink said on Sky Sports: “He’s going to add a lot, come on!
“He has experience with Arsenal and Manchester United, and he performed well for Brighton. He understands that he won’t be the first choice at Chelsea, and he is willing to accept that.
“However, he can contribute immensely to the other players both on and off the pitch. He will engage with his teammates and provide support in that manner, but he also has the desire to score and will want to be involved in the action.
“It’s a fantastic signing for the club.”
EPL: Scholes names two teams that will not challenge Arsenal for title
Ballon d’Or 2026: Thierry Henry names two favourites to win award
U-20 WWC: Falconets shift focus to China after Spain defeat – Aduku
