“Strange one” – Former Arsenal player can’t understand Alonso’s big lineup decision

The decision to use Morgan Rogers up top proved to be a bad one for Chelsea, who probably now regret it.

The news that Joao Pedro was injured was a massive blow to Chelsea, and in the end Xabi Alonso’s decision to replace him by moving Morgan Rogers up top and putting Geovany Quenda on the left wing didn’t work at all.

In fact, it was quite amazing how long the Spanish coach let that setup continue. He got ready to bring Danny Welbeck on at one point – then changed his mind after the red card and delayed that call.

Pundits weren’t sure at all about that decision – and it never looked like working.

Martin Keown questions Alonso’s line up decision

“That’s a strange one. We know what Danny brings. They used him very late in the match, and I just can’t understand why they did not start with him,” Martin Keown said post-game on Match of the Day.

“Morgan Rogers, I can’t remember seeing him start in that position while he was at Aston Villa,” Keown added, questioning the decision to go with Rogers up front instead of bringing Welbeck into the XI.”

Rogers struggled to hold the ball up and make any sort of impact – it was noted he won just 18% of his duels, showing how easily the Spurs centre backs marshalled him.

In other news…

Chelsea’s overall setup was criticised as too “passive” in general as it allowed Tottenham to gain confidence in the game.

Alonso spoke about Mike Penders’ mistake and how he was going to help him recover from it.