Chelsea’s 1-0 win over Pafos probably won’t stand out as a highlight of Liam Rosenior’s time in charge.
The Blues found it tough going for much of the game, only breaking through late on thanks to a Moises Caicedo header.
Even with the lacklustre display, there were a few positives. Estevao Willian made a strong impression off the bench and played an important role in helping Chelsea see out the win.
The result sets up an important final group stage match against Antonio Conte’s Napoli, with a win likely enough to guarantee Chelsea’s place in the Round of 16.
Liam Rosenior sets new Chelsea passing mark in win over Pafos
Some of the Stamford Bridge crowd made their frustrations clear as Rosenior’s approach was patient, with Chelsea seeing 71% of the ball.
OptaJoe reported a 94.5% pass completion rate for the Blues, marking the highest percentage the club has posted since records began.
Chelsea fans have never been big on slow, controlled football. Back when Enzo Maresca was in charge, supporters booed him during his first game after they tried to play out from the back against Manchester City.
Rosenior caught some of that same criticism in his opening match against Charlton and still has work to do to bring everyone onside.
Rosenior ‘devastated’ after Chelsea vs Pafos
There were also a few negatives on the night that left the manager feeling frustrated.
The injury to Filip Jorgensen in the first half hit hard, especially since it looked like he was on track for his first clean sheet of the season. Rosenior spoke about how gutted he was for him.
Liam Delap also came under fire for his showing, but Rosenior defended him post-match.
Rosenior knows full well that standards need to rise ahead of this weekend’s clash with Crystal Palace, followed by Napoli in the Champions League next Wednesday.
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