Legendary Chelsea captain John Terry has launched a scathing critique of the team's defensive tactics following their heavy 3-0 defeat to Brentford. The London side once again faltered at set pieces, conceding five goals from dead-ball situations over the first five matches of the season, the worst record in the Premier League.
In a passionate outburst on his YouTube channel, the former 'Blues' defender did not hold back:
I prefer man-to-man marking; I absolutely dislike zonal marking. Our smallest players are tasked with marking their tallest players. You should have defenders who are ready to challenge for aerial balls, players who aren't afraid to put their head in where others fear to put their foot, asserting total dominance.
Xabi Alonso's side controlled 59% of possession, but Brentford outperformed them across all key metrics. The Bees had an expected goals tally of 2.65 against Chelsea's paltry 0.82 xG. While Chelsea whipped in 28 crosses into the opposition box, only a mere 7% of those found their intended targets.
The Blues are now without a victory in three Premier League matches. Their next chance to bounce back comes on October 10 when they face Bournemouth at home.
