Danny Welbeck opened his Chelsea account as the Blues comfortably defeated third-tier Luton Town 2-0 at Stamford Bridge to book their place in the League Cup third round.
After beginning the Xabi Alonso era with an entertaining 3-2 victory over Fulham in the Premier League, Chelsea made several changes for their cup tie but still had enough quality to overcome Luton.
The attacking trio of Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers impressed in the win at Fulham, but it was the experienced Welbeck who made the difference against Luton.
The 35-year-old broke the deadlock shortly after half-time, rising to meet Malo Gusto’s cross and heading the ball beyond the goalkeeper to score his first goal since joining Chelsea.
Welbeck believes his experience can prove valuable to a squad that contains several young players.
“I bring the average age a little bit higher!” Welbeck joked when asked what he can offer Chelsea.
“The experience of playing games, being around loads of different dressing rooms and knowing what is a good dressing room and a bad one. Knowing what it takes to achieve something special.”
Chelsea doubled their advantage later in the match when Luton defender Hakeem Odoffin turned the ball into his own net following another dangerous delivery from Estevao.
The victory sets up a third-round home meeting with Leeds United, giving Chelsea another opportunity to build momentum under Alonso.
Alonso pleased with Chelsea’s attitude
Mike Penders was handed a start in goal after Robert Sanchez endured a difficult outing against Fulham, while Chelsea continued to manage their squad during a busy start to the campaign.
The Blues could soon add even more experience between the posts, with Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez reportedly close to completing a move from Aston Villa.
Meanwhile, Enzo Fernandez was absent amid reports linking the midfielder with a potential transfer to Manchester City.
Alonso stressed that Chelsea are looking to build a balanced squad containing both young talent and experienced players.
“We want to have a complete squad in all aspects. In quality, personality, young and experienced players – so the young players get help, that they are still players to develop,” Alonso said.
“I’m happy with the energy and attitude of the players.”
Fulham cruise into third round
Fulham also secured their place in the League Cup third round with a comfortable 3-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon.
Emile Smith Rowe opened the scoring in the first half before Rodrigo Muniz doubled Fulham’s advantage to put the Premier League side firmly in control.
Gonzalo Garcia then came off the bench to score for the second consecutive game since completing his move from Real Madrid.
Fulham will face another Premier League test in the next round when they travel to West Ham United.
