Chelsea Manager Liam Rosenior Takes Accountability for Goalkeeper's Mistakes
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has expressed his accountability for the mistakes made by goalkeeper Robert Sanchez following the team's 3-2 defeat to Arsenal in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final.
The 28-year-old Spanish international was involved in errors leading to Arsenal's first two goals at Stamford Bridge. Rosenior noted that his squad has been affected by injuries and illnesses as well.
Sanchez failed to secure Declan Rice's corner kick, which allowed Ben White to score in the seventh minute. Additionally, he mishandled a cross from White, enabling Viktor Gyokeres to find the net from close range in the 49th minute.
Despite Arsenal's Martin Zubimendi also scoring, Chelsea's substitute Alejandro Garnacho managed to net two goals, keeping the team in contention for the tie.
In his first home match as Chelsea's head coach, Rosenior emphasized that he is implementing a new tactical approach for Sanchez. "It’s a team goal; it’s not just on Rob [Sanchez]," he stated. "I’m asking Rob to perform tasks he hasn’t done before. I made it clear before the game that when my players make mistakes, I’m accountable for that. That’s on me."
Rosenior acknowledged Sanchez's impressive save in the second half, which he described as "world-class" and crucial for keeping Chelsea in the match. "This was Rob's first game with me, and I’ve only had two days to work with him. I need to establish my influence on the team, which is why I’m here," he added.
Rosenior also noted the importance of achieving results while continuing to improve. "There are many positives in Rob’s performance. I protect my players; if he makes a mistake while trying to follow my instructions, that’s on me. I have confidence that, in the long run, we will improve as a team with the guidance we provide him in various plays. My role is to support them, not to assign blame."
Challenges with Illness and Injury
Despite the loss, Rosenior expressed satisfaction with his team's performance and highlighted the individual efforts of his players. "The main issue for us is that we faced significant illness and injury while competing against a very strong team," he remarked.
Players Cole Palmer, Reece James, and Malo Gusto were unable to participate due to late fitness tests, while Moises Caicedo was suspended and illness sidelined Liam Delap and Jamie Gittens.
Regarding Palmer, Rosenior explained, "He has a minor thigh strain. If we rush him back too soon, it could lead to a six-week absence, which we cannot afford given his talent." He also mentioned that James suffered a significant hip injury but is hopeful for his return by Saturday.
Rosenior added, "Gittens was ill last night, and Liam Delap fell ill just hours before the match. Both had dangerously high fevers. We hope they can recover in time for Saturday's game."
Rosenior emphasized that Chelsea competed well against Arsenal, a team that has only lost twice this season across all competitions, and believes his squad can still make a comeback in the second leg at the Emirates Stadium on February 3rd. "We played against one of the best pressing teams in Europe today, and we were missing many key players," he said.
He concluded, "I was proud of the players' bravery in executing certain aspects of my game plan. In just six days, we’ve had two matches. While I believe this group is capable of winning now, I also need to establish my mark on the team. It’s a delicate balance, and I hope the fans will notice our progress while we continue to strive for victories."