Chelsea legend John Terry has urged Xabi Alonso's team to return to the basics of football if the Blues want to find stability this season.
The Blues have shown promising signs under the Spanish manager, notably their emphatic 6-3 victory over Leeds in the League Cup. However, a disappointing 2-2 draw against Hull City at Stamford Bridge has sparked a wave of criticism. With just seven points from their opening four Premier League fixtures, Chelsea sit sixth as they prepare for a derby against Brentford.
Terry, a former captain of the club, believes defenders must remember the foundations of their role, especially when facing teams that play a more simplistic, direct style:
The only advice I can offer in moments like this, when you’re going through tough spells as a player, is to ensure you’re doing the basics well. When you have time on the ball, you need to feel completely confident, that's modern football. But when you’re up against teams like Hull who pack the box with bodies, throwing in long balls and goal kicks, you must win those duels. It’s fundamental: blocks, tackles, and winning headers from set pieces. Just clear the ball as far as possible and make sure your midfielders work hard in front of you. Those basics are what’s currently lacking.
Terry emphasised that fans expect nothing less than total commitment from the defence:
Supporters want to see you diving in for tackles, taking a hit for the team, and clearing the ball out for a corner. Think about how many times I went in for tough challenges or won headers, and the crowd would erupt with excitement! Those moments should ignite the passion in any defender. We urgently need to improve in those areas.
