Alan Shearer absolutely loves 'nasty' Chelsea star following Bournemouth masterclass

Chelsea's 5-1 win over Bournemouth on Saturday had plenty of standout performers, but Alan Shearer believes one player deserves the most recognition.

Jordan Henderson stole the headlines with two goals on his home debut, while Joao Pedro also scored a brace as Chelsea returned to winning ways in style.

However, according to Shearer, it was Moises Caicedo who deserves the most credit, with the former Newcastle United striker explaining just how important the midfielder was to the Blues' performance.

Alan Shearer explains why Moises Caicedo is the difference

Despite being an injury doubt, Caicedo started against the Cherries and his display against the Cherries reminded everyone why he would've been such a big miss had he been sidelined.

The Ecuadorian's all-round game was quality and Shearer believes the Blues are no where near as good without him.

"Caicedo makes such a difference to this Chelsea team because of his experience and his ability in that midfield both defensively and when he wins that ball," Shearer said on BBC's Match of the Day (via Metro).

"He makes things look pretty simple but so effective in what he did."

Caicedo's performance against Bournemouth proved he can win possession, find a team-mate and help Chelsea move up the pitch. His work rate also allows his team mates to take more risks.

Shearer pointed specifically to Caicedo's partnership with Henderson, explaining that the midfielder's positioning gave his team-mate the confidence to advance.

"Chelsea are on the front foot and his relationship and understanding allows Henderson to advance forward because he knows what's behind him, he knows he's got his back and has got the protection behind him," he added.

Henderson was able to get forward and make two big contributions in the final third, while Caicedo provided the cover that helped the Blues maintain their balance.

Every team needs a 'nasty' Caicedo

Shearer also highlighted how Caicedo's ability to read the game helped Chelsea create attacking opportunities.

Discussing the move that led to Morgan Rogers' goal, Shearer explained how Caicedo won possession before playing the ball forward to help launch the attack.

"There's a little deflection in there but after three minutes he’s played a huge part in what Chelsea are doing," he said.

The ex-England international also praised Caicedo's pressing and his willingness to get stuck into challenges.

He continued: "You need a little bit of the nasty side in there as well and he's not afraid to do that as well. Every single team needs that."

Shearer acknowledged the performances of all of Chelsea's attackers, but his final verdict pointed towards Caciedo as the Blues' centre piece.

"We've spoken about that front three and rightly so, and what a day for Henderson as well, but it was Caicedo, I thought, who was absolutely superb," he said.

For every Chelsea fan, Shearer's assessment will come as no surprise. Caicedo's ability to win the ball, protect his team-mates and keep attacks moving makes him crucial to how the side operates.

Saturday's showing was just the latest example of the midfielder's importance to Xabi Alonso's plans.