Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca believes his side deserved better from their defeat to Arsenal on Sunday.
The Blues were edged out 1-0 by an early goal from Mikel Merino.
Maresca commented: “I felt we were in the match right until the final whistle. There wasn’t a significant gap between the two teams. Considering our injury situation, we battled hard until the end. After the international break, we expect to welcome back more players like Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke for the decisive phase of the season.
“We performed well and had our opportunities. They converted from a set-piece, which they excel at. It’s disappointing, but I truly believe we are heading in the right direction.
“We managed to control play and carve out some chances. In the second half, we certainly held our ground. Overall, I think we competed excellently.”
On goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, he added: “We’re quite pleased with both of our goalkeepers, and Robert had a solid performance today.”
Despite the loss, Chelsea remain in fourth position, and Maresca remarked: “This is vital for us and for all the teams in that battle.
“When you secure a win, you feel closer to your goals, but when you lose, it can feel like those targets are further away.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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