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Argentine manager, Mauricio Pochettino, has expressed a strong disapproval of Chelsea’s performance in their 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United on Saturday, calling it the “worst of the season” for his side.
Despite an impressive first-half free-kick by Raheem Sterling providing Chelsea a glimpse of hope, goals from Alexander Isak, Jamaal Lascelles, Joelinton, and Anthony Gordon, along with a 73rd-minute red card for captain Reece James, secured a convincing victory for Eddie Howe’s team.
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The defeat marked Chelsea’s fifth in the league this season, relegates them to the 10th position in the standings.
“It wasn’t our best game. In fact, I’d say that was probably our worst performance of the season. It was really tough to be in the stands today and not be able to influence things,” Pochettino said in a post much interview.
He further elaborated on the team’s shortcomings, expressing disappointment over the lack of intensity displayed.
“We didn’t read the game from the beginning, and we didn’t play the way that we should or in the way we expect. We showed a lack of intensity today, and that’s disappointing, especially when we had got ourselves back in the game with Raheem’s goal,” he pointed out.
Argentine manager emphasized that both teams fell short of their best levels, but he acknowledged Chelsea’s inability to complain about the result.
“Too easy for Newcastle.” Expressing his frustration, he stated, “That has to be much, much better because today was our worst performance of the season, and that’s very disappointing,” he criticized”
Looking ahead, Pochettino challenged his squad to extract valuable lessons from the defeat at St James’ Park as they prepare for the upcoming match against Brighton and Hove Albion next Sunday.
“We have certain levels that are required of us, and it’s important we get back to those as soon as possible, and sometimes you need a situation like today to make you realize what it takes,” he emphasized.
Furthermore, the manager highlighted the need for consistent competitiveness from the team.
“We are a young, talented squad, but regardless you have to compete every time you step on the pitch. Those are the fundamentals, and we have to learn from this,” Pochettino stressed.
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