Photo: Chelsea FC

Chelsea recorded a 4-0 victory against Brighton on Saturday afternoon, and it was the first victory for Chelsea in 2018, which has prompted critics from every corner.

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte reminded critics that the Blues are yet to lose in 12 games as the last defeat Chelsea tasted was the 1-0 loss to West Ham early in December.

Conte said after Saturday’s game: “Whoever said this has to pay attention to the stats. We’re unbeaten in 14 games. It’s normal that the press try to see the negative aspect and don’t see the positives.

“But this team, with many problems, are unbeaten in 12 games in every competition. This means we are performing important work with these players to win in this way, despite five players less: Fabregas, Drinkwater, Courtois, two suspensions in Pedro and Morata. Despite this, we won 4-0.

“That means that every player deserves his chance, and every player has to fight to play. Now we have to continue in this way. I’m pleased with the responses of all the players today. You could see on our bench there were Charly Musonda and Sterling and Ampadu, the present and future of Chelsea.

“The club has committed to work with the young players to improve, and I’m doing this. Christensen is only 21 and playing every game. We are doing an important job for this club. We have to continue in this way. Every player today showed a great responsibility.

“For this reason, I’m very happy because every player felt this responsibility. To grow in this aspect is very important for us.”