It was another poor defensive performance from Chelsea, which has been a constant in the Liam Rosenior era. But another thing that has been consistent is the team's ability to come back from bad situations. We saw that in full display against West Ham United tonight. Having seen the Blues go two goals down and looking completely out of sorts, not many fans would have expected a comeback, despite the recent heroics against Napoli in the Champions League.
This might have been even more impressive than the turnaround against Napoli. Chelsea scored three goals after the break to seal three vital points in the top four race in the Premier League. That also makes it five straight wins across all competitions. That is brilliant, considering they are still finding their feet under Rosenior and have been nowhere near their best.
Rosenior's ability to turn games around with substitutions is impressive as well. Joao Pedro and Marc Cucurella both scored after coming on at half-time. The Brazilian also assisted Enzo Fernandez's winner. Wesley Fofana provided an assist and added solidity at the back.
So, what does Rosenior exactly say to inspire these comebacks from Chelsea, a team he has had for less than a month? Cucurella shed some light on that, as he said:
"At half-time we speak, in the end it’s about our mentality and desire we showed… we are very happy. [Liam Rosenior] said it's about us, if we go to press, want the ball, play with confidence, we will get the chances to win."
What Liam Rosenior said at half-time to inspire Chelsea comeback
Well, whatever Rosenior is saying seems to be working at this point in time. But now, it has to be about putting together a complete performance.
It would be a major help if Chelsea are able to sign a centre-back this winter. But the Jeremy Jacquet situation does not seem to be headed anywhere. He has started for Rennes tonight against AS Monaco, which is a clear sign that a move is not close at the moment.
Aaron Anselmino has been brought back but his situation seems a bit of a mess. There have been rumours about another loan, this time to Strasbourg, but why bring him back from Borussia Dortmund in that case, if there are no first-team plans for him? Then there are suggestions that Mamadou Sarr could be recalled, something that Strasbourg fans won't be happy with.
All things considered, Rosenior is making the most of what is available to him and squeezing out wins. But this is not sustainable. Chelsea need genuine quality. This does not look like a squad that took norh of a billion to assemble.