Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has addressed his team's 2-0 defeat to Tottenham in the eighth round of the Premier League.
The Spanish boss offered his backing to goalkeeper Mike Penders, who unfortunately netted an own goal in the 77th minute.
“We win together, and we suffer defeats together. Mistakes are part of football, and it’s our job to overcome them. I can make mistakes too, just like anyone else. We support Mike. He’ll learn from this situation. He’s capable of better, and we need to help him showcase that,” Alonso stated.
Alonso comments on team discipline
The Chelsea manager acknowledged that there is a need for improved discipline after Cole Palmer's sending off in the 80th minute.
“We need to work on this and get better. We discussed similar situations just yesterday. Even the first yellow card can be crucial. It’s part of the team’s maturation process,” the coach noted.
Alonso also reflected on Palmer's red card, recognising the need for the player to learn from the incident.
“This is certainly a moment we can learn from. I haven’t seen the incident myself yet, but I’ve been told the decision was correct. I need to review it before having a chat with Cole, but it’s definitely a lesson to be learned,” added the Spaniard.
Joao Pedro's condition
Alonso revealed that Chelsea are still uncertain about the severity of Joao Pedro's injury, who missed the derby.
“Currently, we don’t know. He has a build-up of fluid, so we need to wait for the examination scheduled for tomorrow,” the manager explained.
Alonso on the defeat to Tottenham
Reflecting on the match, the Chelsea manager expressed disappointment in both the outcome and his team's performance. He believes the game was decided by a key moment.
“Of course, we’re disappointed with the result and the display. At half-time, we discussed it and felt the first goal would be crucial. Both teams had half-chances, and the outcome hinged on that key moment. Once we conceded first, the game took a different trajectory. We’re capable of much more,” concluded Alonso.
