Chelsea defended by journalist after Blues “improved” under Liam Rosenior | OneFootball

Liam Rosenior came in for a lot of criticism last night for putting Chelsea on a defensive footing against Arsenal.

But there was also some backlash to the backlash. Writers like John Cross of the Mirror pointed out that Chelsea had competed better in the second leg than the first. They stayed more defensive, and looked to push forward more in the second period when the crowd were tense.

Chelsea defender by Mirror journalists

Joao Pedro celebrates with Chelsea players. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“Chelsea have improved immeasurably to a place where now they competed with Arsenal. Rosenior had only been in the job for 28 days when he took his team to Arsenal,” Cross wrote.

“They were way better than the first leg, have improved and are growing.”

It echoes what Rosenior said after the game – the difference between the first and second leg was that, even though his team was missing key players in both, they showed more of what he liked in the second leg.

“I actually think that’s right. If Chelsea had gone for it, been open then Arsenal would have feasted on the space and opportunities. It quickly goes to 1-0, 2-0 and it’s done,” Cross continued.

“They were way better than the first leg” was his conclusion.

We’d have to agree – we need to see the trend continue, but there are good signs. The player have certainly bought in, which is the first battle, and hopefully now the tactical work can continue.

In other news…

Gullit also commented on Liam Delap’s position in the game, saying he wouldn’t have enjoyed being used on the right in such a defensive formation.

Cole Palmer is in a real funk right now – you don’t have to watch much of Chelsea to see that. The stats are perhaps even more scary right now.