Chelsea set an unwanted Premier League record in their opening match of the 2017-18 season against Burnley – and it does not bode well for the rest of the campaign.
Less than three months after lifting the title, the mood at Stamford Bridge has turned somewhat sour with Antonio Conte frustrated by the club’s summer transfer business.
Chelsea were beaten in last weekend’s Community Shield clash against Arsenal and things got even worse in the first-half of their opening league game against Burnley.
After club captain Gary Cahill was sent off for a rash challenge, a Sam Vokes brace and a Stephen Ward strike gave the Clarets a surprising 3-0 lead at half-time.
The shambolic display ensured Antonio Conte’s side became the first reigning Premier League champions to concede three goals in the first game of their title defence.
Speaking at half-time, former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin told 5 live Sport: ‘I really am not surprised, because Chelsea have not looked like a team or a group at all.
‘They are not working together. They do not look as though they are working hard – nothing is working and this isn’t strong enough as a side.
‘Antonio Conte should have made major changes at 2-0 down, because now it is too late.
‘Look at that Chelsea bench – they cannot go and win the game from here.’
Ex-Arsenal and England star Martin Keown added: ‘It is interesting – now let’s see how good a manager he is.
‘Half time cannot come soon enough for him now. They really do look like they have lost their head. Sean Dyche looks delighted. The manager looks perplexed.’
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