Xabi Alonso proving his quality with half-time difference in victory against Manchester United

Xabi Alonso's half-time team talk proved a decisive moment as Chelsea returned for the second half with a clear change in approach and, more importantly, a greater sense of control.

The Blues had struggled to impose themselves before the break, giving Manchester United too many opportunities to threaten and making life unnecessarily difficult with possession.

However, Alonso was clear about what needed to change. Rather than simply asking his players to work harder or increase the intensity, his message was that Chelsea would win the game by being better on the ball.

We have spoken at half-time that we're going to win this game with the ball. So the improvement has been with the ball, the message has been to be better with the ball, not to give away that much, to change something tactically but we were more comfortable on the pitch.

It proved to be the difference as it gave the attackers more responsibility in attack and the freedom to take risks, which you could say played a part in the chance of running through the United defence and scoring an excellent opener.

That adjustment was clear to see after the restart. Chelsea looked more comfortable in possession, moved the ball with greater purpose and began to dictate the tempo rather than allowing United to disrupt their rhythm.

While the players will take the shine of the victory given they went out and performed (which they deserve), Xabi Alonso will sit back tonight with a glass of spanish red with a wry smile on his face knowing he did his job.

You could say the job of Michael Carrick failed as his United looked lacklustre and more of the United of present than past after his team talk. This doesn't mean the defeat falls on the under pressure manager, but potentially makes a difference.

We looked better controlled and that's when you feel better with the ball, normally you are better for defending as well. So I think that reaction, that change has been important for the goal and for the feeling as well.

The Spaniard also highlighted how better possession can improve a team's defensive performance. By keeping the ball and controlling the game, Chelsea were able to limit United's opportunities and spend less time having to defend without it.

The reward came with goals from Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer, securing a 2-0 victory and three valuable points. It was not simply a case of Chelsea finding two goals; it was a response built on a tactical adjustment and a manager whose half-time instructions clearly resonated with his players.

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