Morgan Rogers calls Jordan Henderson a ‘machine’ as Chelsea thrive under Xabi Alonso

Chelsea forward Morgan Rogers has praised Jordan Henderson's fitness and technical quality after the veteran midfielder scored twice in Saturday's 5-1 Premier League victory over Bournemouth.

Rogers also credited manager Xabi Alonso for Chelsea's aggressive starts, with the Blues continuing their impressive early-season form.

Henderson, 36, delivered an outstanding performance on his home debut, scoring twice as Chelsea comfortably defeated Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking to Chelsea's official website, Rogers dismissed concerns that the former Liverpool captain was too old to make a significant impact.

“He's a machine,” Rogers said, describing Henderson as potentially the fittest player in Chelsea's dressing room.

The England international also praised Henderson's technical ability, insisting his reputation for leadership sometimes overshadows his footballing qualities.

Henderson's second goal came from a free-kick, highlighting his influence on Chelsea's set pieces.

Rogers joked that he had lost free-kick responsibilities following a training-ground decision made in his absence, but acknowledged that scoring goals mattered more than individual duties.

Rogers also highlighted Alonso's influence on Chelsea's impressive attacking performances.

The Blues have scored within the opening seven minutes in five of their first six Premier League matches, reflecting their emphasis on fast starts.

“I put it down to the manager's team talks before. He gets us firing, gets us going,” Rogers explained.

Chelsea's convincing victory over Bournemouth included two goals from João Pedro and another from Rogers, alongside Henderson's double.

Despite their encouraging form, Chelsea remain fifth in the Premier League, outside the Champions League places on goal difference.

Rogers stressed that Alonso has encouraged the squad to concentrate on improvement rather than early league positions.

With much of the campaign remaining, Chelsea's focus is on maintaining their intensity and building consistency under their new manager.

Chelsea will look to maintain their attacking momentum when they face Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Henderson's form and Alonso's emphasis on fast starts could prove important as the Blues pursue a top-four place.