RESOLVING THE LEDGER
This is one outlet's own report from Yahoo Sports — the article as it was filed. Other outlets are covering the same event; open the full story to compare every source side by side.
See the full story · 2 sources“He loves to defend” — Alonso says Lacroix’s leadership will have a “big, direct impact” at Chelsea
Xabi Alonso has backed Maxence Lacroix to become a leader at Chelsea , following his £52m arrival from Crystal Palace.
Lacroix has completed his move to Chelsea with the defender signing a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge. He becomes Chelsea's fourth signing of the summer and reinforces the Blues' backline under new head coach Alonso.
Alonso knows the 26-year-old from his time in the Bundesliga and has been impressed with Lacroix's rise since arriving in the Premier League two years ago.
The centre-back won the FA Cup, Community Shield and Europa Conference League at Palace, while breaking into the France national side.
Alonso has no doubts that Lacroix will become a central figure in his Chelsea side this season. Lacroix will link up with Chelsea following the club's return from a pre-season tour of Australia and Asia.
"I know Maxence from my time in the Bundesliga," Alonso told chelseafc.com , ahead of the club's Sydney Super Cup fixture against Tottenham tomorrow.
"I think his progression and adaptation in the Premier League has been fantastic – not just on the pitch but in terms of personality and leadership, he also has these attributes.
"He is a very reliable player who will give us power in the defensive line. He has an assurance that will have a big, direct impact on the team, I'm sure. So it’s a great signing for now and for the future.
"He has a strong personality, he is mature, and he wants to win. He has a winner’s mentality and also loves to defend. That is something I like as well."
AIPROPX is an independent multi-source news index — we track, compare, and connect coverage from across the web into one place you won't find anywhere else.