•Chelsea midfielder Estevao (3L) celebrates team’s second goal against Luton, yesterday
Danny Welbeck netted his first Chelsea goal as the Blues shrugged aside third-tier Luton 2-0 at Stamford Bridge to reach the League Cup third round.
The front three of Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers caught the eye in a 3-2 win at Fulham on Monday to open the Xabi Alonso era at Chelsea with victory, reports AFP.
But 35-year-old Welbeck showed he will be a useful addition to the Chelsea squad by heading in Malo Gusto’s cross to break Luton’s resistance after a goalless first half.
“I bring the average age a little bit higher!” Welbeck said on what he brings to a Chelsea squad that has lacked experience in recent seasons.
“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.”
Hakeem Odoffin’s own goal killed the tie off after another dangerous delivery by Estevao as Chelsea set up a home tie against Leeds in the last 32.
Mike Penders started in goal for Chelsea after Robert Sanchez’s error-strewn display against Fulham.
And Alonso may soon have the experience of Emi Martinez to count on with a deal to bring the Argentina international to London from Aston Villa reportedly close to completion.
But Martinez’s international teammate Enzo Fernandez was not involved as he appears set for a move to Manchester City.
“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,” said Alonso.
“I’m happy with the energy and attitude of the players.”
Fulham also booked their place in round three with a 3-0 win over AFC Wimbledon.
First-half goals from Emile Smith Rowe and Rodrigo Muniz put Alvaro Arbeloa’s side in command before Gonzalo Garcia came off the bench to net for the second time in two games since his move from Real Madrid.
Fulham travel to West Ham in round three.
