The Blues have scored early in each of our three league games so far this season, something Alonso knows cannot last forever. And should we not net early against Hull City today, we will likely face the challenge of breaking down a low block.

The Tigers have impressed with three consecutive shutouts so far this season – just the third promoted side to achieve that in Premier League history – and Alonso appreciates the challenge that facing a deep-lying defence can present.

‘You need to do many things right,’ Alonso said. ‘You need to be patient. You need to be patient in positioning, patient in dynamics, patient in knowing when to attack and when it is the right moment.

‘There will be different moments as well. It’s not that I expect it’s going to be 90 minutes only one way. You need to be prepared for different contexts and scenarios, but the key is not to get frustrated, knowing that the details are so important.

‘We played against Luton when they were in a low block, and at half-time it was 0-0,' added Alonso.

'But half-time was really relaxed. We said, "We are doing it right, keep going, keep going, keep going." Once we scored the first goal, it changed. But we need to be ready for everything.’

Alonso’s venerable Premier League career taught him plenty about the standards required in the top flight, but also the fine margins that can make the difference in tight contests. Balancing those with the bigger picture is something he wants to instil in his Chelsea squad.

‘Set-pieces can play an important part,’ Alonso said. ‘But I always think that if you have game control, you get emotional control.

'Not losing emotional control of the game is always good, and having the conviction that what you’re doing is the best way to beat Hull, or any team operating in a low block.’