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Chelsea interim head coach Calum McFarlane addressed the key talking points following the Blues’ 2-1 defeat to Fulham, offering clarity on Marc Cucurella’s red card, praise for Liam Delap’s first Premier League goal, and insight into why incoming boss Liam Rosenior took a hands-off approach on the night.
Despite the disappointment of another loss, McFarlane struck a measured tone, insisting the performance — even with 10 men — showed resilience rather than recklessness.
“The Red Card Changed the Game”
Marc Cucurella’s 22nd-minute dismissal proved a turning point at Craven Cottage, but McFarlane rejected the idea that it stemmed from indiscipline.
“Any red card has a big impact on the game. I’m very disappointed because we were starting to find our rhythm,” McFarlane said.
“This red card happens in football. You’re caught one-on-one. Harry Wilson is smart and showed his class. This sending off isn’t a lack of discipline.”
However, the interim coach did take issue with Chelsea’s reaction immediately after the incident, when several players picked up yellow cards while protesting.
“We need to pay attention to the three yellow cards we received afterward for challenging. That’s the part we must be better at.”
No “Cultural Problem”, Says McFarlane
With Chelsea now accumulating multiple red cards this season, McFarlane was asked whether poor discipline has become ingrained at the club. He strongly disagreed.
“It’s not a cultural issue — it’s probably the feeling and emotion of the game,” he explained.
“They let their emotions get the better of them, just like I did when I got the warning.”
The coach framed the issue as one of emotional control, not systemic failure.
Praise for Delap After Breakthrough Goal
One of the few bright moments of the night came when Liam Delap scored his first Premier League goal for Chelsea, levelling the match in the second half despite the numerical disadvantage.
McFarlane was quick to highlight the striker’s contribution.
“It was a tough situation today — being the only striker with ten men on the team,” he said.
“But he coped and pushed us forward. I’m glad he scored; it’ll give him confidence, and I hope his performances continue at this level.”
The goal was a rare positive in an otherwise frustrating evening and may prove important for Delap’s confidence under the new regime.
Why Liam Rosenior Stayed in the Background
New head coach Liam Rosenior watched the match from the stands but did not intervene in team affairs — a decision McFarlane explained was both practical and respectful.
“Because he arrived so late, we’d already done our preparations, so he left it to us,” McFarlane said.
“He said some very encouraging words. He let us choose the lineup and tactics. He showed respect and trust before starting his work tomorrow.”
Rosenior is expected to take full control from training onward, beginning preparations for Chelsea’s next fixture.
Back to the U21s for McFarlane
McFarlane also confirmed that his interim spell has come to an end and that he will now return to his role with Chelsea’s Under-21 side — who enjoyed a far more successful evening.
The development squad recorded a 6-2 victory on the same night, offering at least some positivity elsewhere within the club.
With Rosenior now officially at the helm, Chelsea move into yet another new chapter — but as this defeat showed, the challenges awaiting him are immediate and unforgiving.
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