‘HE COULD HAVE DEFENDED BETTER’! ALONSO BLAMES STAR DEFENDER AFTER CHELSEA’S SHOCK DEFEAT TO SUNDERLAND!

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has criticised defender Levi Colwill following the Blues’ controversial 1-0 Premier League defeat to Sunderland on Sunday.

The decisive moment came before half-time when referee Jarred Gillett awarded Sunderland a penalty after a challenge involving Colwill and striker Brian Brobbey. Despite Brobbey appearing to grab the defender by the collar, VAR upheld the decision.

Enzo Le Fée converted the spot-kick to hand Sunderland the victory, while Chelsea were also left frustrated after an earlier penalty appeal involving Cole Palmer was rejected following a VAR review.

Reacting to the controversial decisions, Alonso avoided directing his frustration at the match officials and instead questioned his defender’s actions. He admitted that Colwill could have handled the situation better, saying: “It’s an action where he can defend better.”

The Spaniard also acknowledged Chelsea’s attacking shortcomings, admitting that his team lacked the pace, patience and creativity required to break down Sunderland’s defensive setup. He insisted that the defeat was partly down to his team’s inability to create enough clear-cut chances.

The result leaves Alonso with major concerns to address ahead of Chelsea’s upcoming Premier League fixtures, particularly regarding defensive discipline and attacking efficiency.