Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior has defended his side’s pre-match huddle, insisting it is about unity and not intended to antagonise opponents.
Liam Rosenior has dismissed criticism surrounding Chelsea’s pre-match huddle, insisting the ritual is intended to promote unity rather than provoke opponents.
The controversy arose ahead of Chelsea’s 1–0 defeat to Newcastle United, when referee Paul Tierney was inadvertently caught in the middle of the team’s huddle in the centre circle before kick-off. Some pundits have criticised the practice as disrespectful, but Rosenior believes the reaction has been exaggerated and maintains that the players’ intentions have been misunderstood.
The Chelsea manager refused to confirm whether the team would continue the routine in their crucial UEFA Champions League clash against PSG emphasising that the focus remains on the game itself.
Rosenior added that he plans to hold discussions with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) regarding recent officiating decisions that he feels have gone against his side.
Chelsea have also been dealt a setback with captain Reece James expected to miss several weeks after sustaining a hamstring injury during the Newcastle match, while Malo Gusto is also a doubt due to illness.
Despite the distractions and injury concerns, Rosenior insisted his side must remain focused as they attempt a difficult comeback from a 5–2 first-leg deficit against PSG, stressing that his players are united and determined to deliver a strong performance.
