Liam Rosenior claims Chelsea had one player who was “outstanding” in Arsenal defeat | OneFootball

Liam Rosenior labelled the performance of Pedro Neto as “outstanding” in Chelsea’s defeat to Arsenal on Wednesday evening.

The Blues lost the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi final 3-2 at Stamford Bridge, and face a huge task in the second leg at The Emirates.

Alejandro Garnacho scored both goals as he made a huge impact from the bench, whilst Arsenal were gifted two goals from Robert Sanchez mistakes.

Liam Rosenior praises Pedro Neto performance

Rosenior was without five first team regulars, with Reece James, Cole Palmer, Malo Gusto, Jamie Gittens and Liam Delap all missing.

It’s been confirmed there’s been an outbreak of the flu at the club, and without a number of key players, the Blues arguably did well to keep the deficit to one goal.

Rosenior was very happy with Neto’s performance. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

The loss means Chelsea still haven’t beaten Arsenal since 2021, but Rosenior hailed Neto’s performance as “outstanding.”

“I’m lucky. A coach is as good as his players. I’ve got a very good squad,” he told his post-match press conference.

“I felt all three of the wingers today, I felt Estevao had some magical moments. Pedro Neto was outstanding for me, one of the best players on the pitch, playing three different positions for me.

“Then I can bring on Garnacho fresh. I’m really looking forward to working with this group.”

Chelsea face tough Brentford test on Saturday

Whilst the Blues showed some fight, they will need to do more than that against Brentford on Saturday in Rosenior’s first Premier League game in charge.

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The Blues are currently two points behind Brentford who occupy fifth place, and again face another difficult task in beating the Bees.

The fixture earlier in the season finished 2-2 with Chelsea conceding a last minute equaliser, and Rosenior will hope he has his best team to call upon in what is a must win game for the Blues.