Roberto Di Matteo had no regrets about his decision to make eight changes to his Chelsea side despite a 4-1 defeat at Liverpool that ended their hopes of finishing in the Barclays Premier League’s top four.
Having won the FA Cup final against the same opponents on Saturday and with a Champions League final against Bayern Munich still to play, caretaker boss Di Matteo put his faith in a handful of fringe players at Anfield.
But an own-goal from Michael Essien added to efforts from Jordan Henderson, Daniel Agger and Jonjo Shelvey handed the Reds three points, with only a Ramires goal for consolation.
“We’ve come so far because we’ve used all the energy and all the players we have in the squad, that’s the only way to be in the race for fourth until now and qualify for those two finals,” he told Sky Sports 1.
“No regrets, Liverpool is a difficult place to play and we found a very inspired Liverpool side.
“We’ve had very intense games, the last one just three days ago. To get yourself up every three days…it’s a big demand on everyone. I thought with fresh legs and new energy we could have had a better chance.
“But Liverpool were better tonight.”
Asked if he felt he had let the chance of fourth spot go, the Italian answered:
“We have had 37 games to rack up the points, not just tonight.”
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I agreed with DM squad selection.Chelsea priorty should be Champion League final.Peter Cech should be rested against Blackburn to prevent injury.Just imagine,If Chelsea is without Peter Cech.You may as well forget about the final. Rest all the important players for the most prestigious silverware.I trust you can achieved it DM.Beside, Chesea defeat against liverpool will diminish all over confident feeling within the squad. Chelsea will overcome all obsticles when it matter most and will be the new European Champion. Good Luck.
I wish chelsea best of luck.