Angry Azpilicueta says all the right things after ‘unacceptable’ 4-0 Chelsea loss

Steps taken forward, and sleepwalking back again. We’ve been down this road all too many times.

In a way, all the players should be well practiced in what needs to be said in these situations, even if nothing actually seems to change afterwards, certainly not in the long term, certainly not consistently.

Take it away, Captain Dave.

“We have to be more consistent because 10 days ago we lost against Arsenal, we had a really bad game there, then we played two good games in the cup. To drop back again is really frustrating. We are very angry. It is unacceptable for Chelsea and we have to find the solutions.”

That’s all well and good, but will we see any of that anger on the pitch? Based on prior evidence, there’s a good chance we will not.

Empty at the words may be, it’s what needs to be said, especially from the de facto captain and one of the few players left in the squad with some leadership credentials.

“Everything went wrong from the first minute of the second half. We conceded an early goal, and then when we were closer to equalising we conceded a second. After that, we didn’t have the reaction we should have. Conceding four goals is unacceptable, and we are very angry with that.

“Afterwards we spoke as men between the manager and the players. It was a very tough result after two wins in the cup. We expected another result tonight. To lose 4-0 as Chelsea players is unacceptable.”

And yet, we have to accept it. There is no other choice. In fact, it’s useless to dwell on it. We have to learn from it, improve by it, and burn it to ash.

“We have to push and look at ourselves, and to improve. The first step is to be humble and to come back in a strong way with three points.”

Next up are bottom of the table Huddersfield Town. The perfect opportunity for an easy three points before the scart part of the February schedule hits.

“Two weeks ago we were in a better position [for the top four]. We have put ourselves at risk. We are in trouble after dropping six points in the last two games. It’s become harder but we have to get the three points on Saturday, there is no other option.”

“We still have 14 games to go .The target is to qualify: the minimum we should do is qualify for the Champions League. It’s very important, the minimum Chelsea require and we will fight hard to get that position.”

-César Azpilicueta: Chelsea FC

So say we all.