Liam Rosenior: Chelsea is aware of how to perform in ‘crucial matches’ before facing Arsenal.
Liam Rosenior is confident that his Chelsea squad can “perform in significant matches” following their success in securing two major titles last season.
Under the guidance of then-manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea claimed victory in the UEFA Conference League and subsequently triumphed in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup held in the United States last summer.
As they approach a crucial Carabao Cup semifinal second leg, trailing 3-2 against league leaders Arsenal, Rosenior has expressed that his players’ experience in high-stakes situations will be advantageous.
“Yes, I believe my players, particularly Enzo Fernández [who] has won a World Cup, along with the group that secured two trophies last year, are capable of playing in significant matches,” Rosenior stated to reporters ahead of his first chance to guide Chelsea into a major final.
“They can excel in important games, and this is certainly a significant match on Tuesday.
“I won’t comment on what Arsenal or Mikel Arteta have accomplished or not. That is not my focus. My priority is on recovery.
“It’s another week with three matches, and we need to recuperate. Tuesday’s game will be very physical, and I am concentrating on preparing the team as effectively as possible for that challenge.”
When questioned if reaching a League Cup final and overcoming Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal would help demonstrate that he is the right choice for the Chelsea position, Rosenior remarked that a win would benefit the club rather than himself.
“To be completely honest, I don’t concern myself with proving whether I am suitable for the role or not. My focus is on fulfilling my responsibilities,” he said.
“If we reach the final, it will be a positive outcome for Chelsea Football Club. This is not about me.
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“In time, I will demonstrate whether I am deserving or not, but that is not my primary concern.”
18-year-old winger Estêvão was absent from Chelsea’s comeback victory against West Ham over the weekend, having returned to Brazil for personal reasons. Ahead of the Arsenal match, Rosenior was unable to provide a timeline for his return.
“I am uncertain [if he will participate against Arsenal],” Rosenior mentioned.
“Regarding Este, he is a young player who has been outstanding. He is currently going through a challenging period for personal reasons and is on compassionate leave. I will not impose any pressure on him.
“It must be right for him, and he needs to feel prepared to contribute to this team.”
