Sky Sports commentator Alan Smith has praised Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso for snapping up Jordan Henderson during the summer transfer window.

Many questioned whether recruiting the 36-year-old was a good idea, but speaking exclusively to Chelsea News (courtesy of Best Betting Sites UK), Smith said:

“I don’t know how many doubts there were. I suppose there are doubts when you’ve got a player of that age, 36 years of age, and you’re wondering how it’s going to pan out. But it’s been brilliant. Xabi Alonso clearly trusts him, and the teammates will as well.”

“He got two great goals the other day [against Bournemouth], didn’t he? Not known for those kinds of finishes, but it looks a shrewd signing. Of course, he’s got Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, and you’d see those as your first-choice two in the middle of the park. But Henderson’s a great option.”

Henderson has exceeded expectations

Fans weren’t anticipating the former Liverpool captain playing a lot following his free transfer from Brentford in the summer.

There was a general assumption that Henderson was recruited to provide some leadership in the dressing room, whilst also setting the right standard on the training ground.

However, since recovering from the broken wrist he sustained at the World Cup, Alonso has started him in three consecutive league games. As Smith mentions, the brace against Bournemouth was undoubtedly the highlight so far.

Chelsea are still expected to strengthen the midfield

Despite Henderson’s surprising rise to becoming a regular starter, though, he is likely to have more competition for his place when the January transfer window opens.

After failing to sign Bournemouth’s Alex Scott in the summer, it is believed that the Blues will make another attempt to bring him to Stamford Bridge in the New Year. The 23-year-old could cost upwards of £100m.