Xabi Alonso’s side were in danger of crashing out following Tarik Muharemovic’s first-half opener and a Brenden Aaronson goal soon after the interval at Stamford Bridge. But Alonso sent on England forward Palmer, along with Morgan Rogers, Pedro Neto and Reece James, at half-time and the decision inspired Chelsea’s stirring escape act. Chelsea fought back from two goals down to beat Leeds 6-3 as Cole Palmer and Danny Welbeck rescued the Blues in a League Cup third-round classic on Wednesday.
Losing 2-1 at Premier League champions Arsenal on Sunday had ended Alonso’s three-game winning start to his reign. Chelsea have scored 16 goals in Alonso’s first five matches to showcase their attacking talent. Despite spending £349 million ($472 million) during the transfer window, Chelsea ended the Arsenal game with James and Malo Gusto — two players who are usually right-backs — operating in central midfield. The 16-year-old Watson — the fourth youngest player in Chelsea’s history — is the son of Ben Watson, who scored Wigan’s FA Cup final winner against Manchester City in 2013. Alonso’s men made it four goals in the space of just 12 minutes as Welbeck turned and smashed a powerful strike past Zetterer’s weak attempted save.
