Alonso praises Rogers as 'very complete modern player'

Xabi Alonso has hailed Morgan Rogers as a "very complete modern player" after the Chelsea forward scored his fourth goal for the club in a 5-1 victory over Bournemouth.

Rogers joined Chelsea from Aston Villa this summer and has wasted little time making an impression at Stamford Bridge, despite a shortened pre-season following England's third-place finish at the World Cup.

The 24-year-old scored on his Chelsea debut against Fulham and has since netted away at Arsenal, in a draw with Hull City, and in Saturday's win over Bournemouth. He has also registered four assists across his eight appearances for the club.

Rogers has played more than 70 games for club and country since the start of last season, yet his output remains consistent — a point raised with Alonso after the latest win.

"No, [his form isn't a surprise] because he is young, he's fresh, he's strong and he's quick – he is a very complete modern football player," Alonso said in his post-match press conference.

"His availability is also very high and this is very important. He looks fresh and he is enjoying [his football] because he's a great guy and is connecting very well with his team-mates, and with everyone."

"He is having a great impact on the team and the club," the Chelsea manager added.