Xabi Alonso Names 'Influential' Chelsea Star As 'Strategic' Transfer Decision Pays Off

Both Rogers and Palmer were involved in the goals against Hull City.

Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers have already hit the ground running this season after both were involved in the goals during Chelsea's 2-2 draw against Hull City in the Premier League.

Rogers, who arrived for a club-record fee of £117 million from Aston Villa in the summer, has already bagged three goals and four assists in six appearances in all competitions, showing exactly why Chelsea decided to buy the England international.

Meanwhile, Palmer has four goals and two assists in as many appearances, underscoring how influential the pair have been in their reunion.

Chelsea have required Rogers, Palmer, and attacking teammate Joao Pedro to be on top form in front of goal given their defensive frailties, which was once again an issue as they conceded two soft goals, allowing Hull to maintain their unbeaten start to the league season.

Rogers opened the scoring against the Tigers, while Palmer set up Joao Pedro's equaliser to ensure Chelsea remain unbeaten at home in all competitions.

All four of Rogers' assists came in the Carabao Cup third round victory against Leeds United.

The connection between Rogers and Palmer, in particular, is already noticeable, and Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso believes the pair's relationship has proved influential in Rogers settling in so quickly in west London.

"I would say a lot," responded Alonso when asked how much he feels their off-field relationships is helping them on the pitch.

Alonso added: "Before playing together they were so connected. For sure we were following this connection to happen for a few weeks before the transfer did happen. And Cole was very influential and he played an important role, Morgan as well, the club as well. We are happy that this has come to where it is right now."

The 24-year-old has the pressure of the £117m price-tag and he's dealt with it so far so well. Chelsea's 'strategic decision' looks to be paying off.

"He's adapted quite well, very quick," continued Alonso. "For sure it was a target and it was a strategic decision on us that we got a few players that were ready to compete and ready to have an instant impact in the team.

"Morgan was for sure the top one and we were expecting that, but for sure the way it has happened it's been great. He's feeling great, he's enjoying his game, his football, his connection with the team."

Rogers and Palmer will hope to link up again on September 18, when Chelsea face Brentford in the Premier League, their final game before September's international break.

While Rogers was involved with England at the World Cup, Palmer looks set to be guaranteed a call-up, as long as he doesn't suffer any issues next week, continuing the pair's relationship for club and country.

England face Spain, Czech Republic (twice) and Croatia in the Nations League as part of their four-game schedule in September and October.

For now, Rogers and Palmer will be focused on getting Chelsea back to winning ways in the league. They are now two games without a victory after following up the Arsenal defeat with a draw to Hull.

As long as Chelsea's attack continues firing, scoring 10 in their opening four league games, Alonso's side will eventually get back on the winning trail - and what better way to do it than under the lights in a west London derby.