Chelsea attacker Willian has admitted that him and his team-mates are hurting due to their poor form this campaign, and that they must change in order to avoid a repeat next season.
The Blues have suffered a remarkable fall from grace this term, after their superb form last season saw them win the Premier League comfortably.
This campaign has been a difficult one both on and off the pitch for the Stamford Bridge club. Chelsea manager Antonio Conte’s relationship with his club’s board has soured due to disagreements over transfer policy, which has resulted in it being widely accepted that the Italian coach will leave the club at the season.
Results on the pitch have also been nowhere near good enough, and the Blues chances of finishing in the top four are all but dead, as they now sit 10 points behind fourth placed Spurs with just six Premier League games remaining.
Speaking to the Mirror Willian revealed that his side will fight to win this seasons FA Cup and that they are aware that things must change ahead of next season.
“Yes. I think that hurt a little bit,” The Brazil international said.
“It doesn’t matter the team, to lose isn’t good. I think something will have to change for next season.
“If a team like Chelsea wants to reach the top four we can’t draw against West Ham at home. We can’t lose against Tottenham at home.
“Of course we still have the FA Cup to fight for [they have a semi-final against Southampton on April 22]. We still have six games to fight for. But we have to change something.”
Many observers believe one of the reasons for Chelsea’s struggles this season has been down to the fact the club have lost so many players in recent seasons that would have been considered leaders in the dressing room like John Terry and Branislav Ivanovic, but Willian has refuted this claims.
“I think we have this kind of player. Of course these guys were very special here – JT, Ivanovic, Lampard. But we have Gary Cahill. We have Azpilicueta. We have David Luiz. Players. Leaders.”
