Ever-improving Chelsea player and former Blue both make Team of the Month for October

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Kickjolly · AI-written · automatically reviewed · The Chelsea Chronicle ↗

Chelsea's Pedro Neto was included in Opta Analyst's Premier League Team of the Month for October, thanks to his strong performances under Xabi Alonso, scoring two goals and providing one assist in four games. The team had a mixed month, losing to Tottenham Hotspur but winning against Manchester United, Everton, and Bournemouth. Neto's form has been a highlight, and he has shown significant improvement under Alonso's management. He is currently on three goals for the season.

Neto's inclusion in the Team of the Month is notable, as he has outperformed his previous season's statistics, with a current goal rate of 0.40 per 90 minutes compared to 0.17 previously. His former Chelsea teammate, Nicolas Jackson, also made the Team of the Month, having scored five goals in eight Premier League appearances. Jackson's form is particularly relevant given Joao Pedro's injury, and he could potentially fill the gap left by the Brazilian player.

The return of Joao Pedro from injury is expected to cause changes in Alonso's lineup, potentially affecting Neto's starting position. While Neto has performed well, especially in the right wing-back position, Estevao Willian's impressive performances, such as against Manchester United, could also impact the team's formation. Alonso may consider an attacking lineup featuring Estevao, Pedro, Morgan Rogers, and Cole Palmer upon Pedro's return.