The 20-year-old defender played 17 games for the Hornets, winning high praise in the process, before being recalled by the Blues to help solve our defensive injury crisis.
Alleyne was impressive on his City debut against Brighton in midweek and capped another assured performance against Exeter City with his first senior goal.
Assistant coach Lijnders, taking media duties due to Pep Guardiola’s one game suspension, said: “It must have been the strangest week for Max.
“Being at Watford, getting the call to return and tomorrow you are here and play two days later.
“You see the way he plays; he brings calm into the build-up. He creates 2 v 1 with Rodri all the time, he steps to be close to the structure to break through the lines, the way he finds the pockets and the way he deals with the long balls when he’s free to make it calm.
“When needed he can clear it. He needs to make steps. We’re really happy he’s back and it’s a sign of a healthy club that these boys can come from the Academy and make an impression.
“Overall I have to say these boys are humble and want to work. That’s how I see it and we’re really happy with that.”
Watch the embargo section of Pep Lijnders’ press conference by playing the video above.
