EPL: Alonso hails Chelsea fans’ warm reception

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Chelsea manager, Xabi Alonso has praised supporters for the warm reception he received at Stamford Bridge as he experienced his first home match as the club’s head coach.

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The Spaniard admitted he was moved by the ovation from the Blues faithful before kick-off and stressed the importance of building a strong relationship between the team and supporters ahead of the new season.

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In a post obtained from Chelsea’s website on Sunday, Alonso was quoted as saying, “It was emotional to feel my first time in the new home. A great reception from the supporters to the team and to the new staff, myself as well, so delighted.”

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Alonso also reflected positively on Chelsea’s final preparation game, describing it as a useful test ahead of their opening Premier League fixture against Fulham.

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“It was a very good last preparation game,” he said. “For some players it was the first one and the last one. For us, there were some good things, some things we can improve. It’s normal at this moment for some players.”

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The Chelsea boss was pleased to have the squad together, with some players able to build up their fitness by playing for around an hour.

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“It was great to have all the team together. Some of them after three days could play for 60 minutes. It was the last test. Now we have a whole week to prepare for Fulham, but it was a good feeling in the stadium.”

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Alonso believes a strong connection with the supporters can provide Chelsea with an important advantage at Stamford Bridge. He wants his side to reward their backing with entertaining football and positive performances.

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“We want to create good connections and have that support. “We want to give them good football so they will give us energy, and we connect.

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“To have a good atmosphere here in the stadium will be a massive boost for the team,” he added.

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