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Jody Morris explains why Xabi Alonso is not to blame for Chelsea’s negative tactics

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Former Chelsea player and assistant manager Jody Morris has defended Xabi Alonso. Alonso has come under scrutiny following the Blues’ 2-0 defeat to Tottenham, especially ...

Source excerpt · The Chelsea Chronicle ↗
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Jody Morris explains why Xabi Alonso is not to blame for Chelsea’s negative tactics
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images

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Former Chelsea player and assistant manager Jody Morris has defended Xabi Alonso. 2-0 defeat to Tottenham, especially for their negative approach. Chelsea were expected to beat Spurs at Stamford Bridge, as they normally do, but the visitors thoroughly outplayed them.

Alonso’s side had just 31 per cent possession and six shots compared to Tottenham’s 11. This was not the first time Chelsea have let their opposition dominate possession this season, even in games they have won.

The Blues had just 25 per cent possession in their 4-3 home win against Brighton in August. While no one complains when it leads to results, many fans have criticised Alonso for not being brave enough to play out from the back and show patience on the ball rather than relying on counter-attacks.

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The Chelsea Chronicle ↗
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Chelsea, Tottenham

Attributed publisher reporting. Kickjolly has not independently confirmed the claim.

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This brief is drawn from The Chelsea Chronicle. The original report is linked below for its complete context.

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