Marcos Alonso believes ‘everything is more difficult’ at Chelsea this season as Premier League champions struggle in the top-flight
The 26-year-old insists playing in Europe has caused the Blues problems as Antonio Conte's men trail Manchester City by nine points
CHELSEA star Marcos Alonso has claimed that 'everything is more difficult' this season at Stamford Bridge.
The 26-year-old left wing-back revealed the Blues are struggling this campaign as they look to retain their Premier League title.
Speaking to Spanish news outlet Marca, Alonso believes playing in Europe has been detrimental as the West Londoners look for consistency in the top-flight.
He said: "This season is more complicated than the previous one. We have four competitions and, in addition, we don't have a very big squad which makes everything more difficult.
"But we have been winning games in the final minutes and the victory over Watford has boosted our morale for the upcoming games."
And when asked whether Chelsea are already ready to throw in the towel, he added: "No, certainly not. It is a very long season.
"Manchester City are playing very well, but their performances could dip at any given time so we must be ready to fight."
Chelsea currently sit fourth in the table after nine games played - a massive nine points behind leaders Pep Guardiola's Citizens side.
Last season, Antonio Conte's men struggled at the beginning on the campaign, and after losing 3-0 to Arsenal at the Emirates, embarked on a long-winning run.
And Alonso insists his team-mates are more than capable of replicating that form, he said: "After playing six games, we won 13 in a row and I see no reason that we can't repeat that."
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The Spanish youth international also went on to say how it is in an honour to be managed by Conte, while he has also paid homage to Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa.
He said: "I'm a lucky player. I've been coached by (Vincenzo) Montella, then Paulo Sousa and now with Conte, who works phenomenally and is a great coach.
"I've had teammates like Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa who I've learned a lot from. Conte is a tough coach, who likes to work on both the physical and tactical aspect of play.
"When you train, you suffer, but you thank him on the field. Last season, we were champions so I don't think anyone complained about how much we ran."
Chelsea face Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium tomorrow where they will be looking not to drop further behind Manchester City.
