Manager defends goalkeeper, pointing to missed chances and team functionality. He emphasizes accountability and improvement needed for this young Chelsea squad.
In comments made at Cobham before the midweek match against Aston Villa, Rosenior addressed the criticism directed at his goalkeeper following the loss in the London derby.
He said, “I think every player contributes to the bigger picture and the functionality of the team. So yes, in the first few minutes, we had some moments of nervousness.
The fact that we played out from the back affected their press and gave us space in the areas we wanted. I think that is clear. That is why I don’t want to single out any player and say what he can or cannot improve.
It is about the team's functionality. I don’t think anyone can say, apart from the two goals from set pieces, that my team didn’t function well in the match. By the way, the league leader is first in the Champions League.
We functioned very well for large parts of the match. The reason we lost the match was that we didn’t take our moments. It has nothing to do with Rob’s distribution or the way we played. We have to manage those moments to win football matches.”
The defeat was compounded by a moment of madness from Pedro Neto, who received a red card for two quick bookings, including one for dissent. The sending-off drew a strong reaction from pundits, with former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton labeling the winger an “idiot” for letting his teammates down.
However, Rosenior revealed that the former Wolverhampton player has already taken steps to make amends for his mistake in the locker room, as the club tries to move on from its ninth sending-off of the season.
Rosenior explained the internal aftermath of the red card: “You have to improve. My job is to create a culture of accountability. If you make a mistake, you have to acknowledge it to make sure it doesn’t happen again. You need your teammates to help you, but ultimately, it is up to you.
Pedro has apologized to the group. Now I need to see an improvement in behavior. It’s not just about Pedro. Enzo is a standout leader. It is something that needs to improve. We are one of the youngest teams in Europe.
Sometimes you have to go through certain experiences to get better. I don’t want it to be a learning experience where we don’t achieve what we want to achieve.”
Join The Conversation
Roundtablesports is Free to join! You can post your own thoughts, comment on articles, and start conversations with our Roundtable Writers.
Download the FREE Roundtable APP, and get even easier access to your favorite teams and news!