Chelsea’s search for identity continues after Sunderland defeat

Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat at Sunderland has renewed questions over Xabi Alonso’s team selection and playing style, though the Blues remain fifth in the Premier League and have collected five more points than at the same stage last season.

Enzo Le Fée scored the only goal from the penalty spot in the 36th minute after Levi Colwill brought down Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey. Chelsea had appealed for a penalty moments earlier when Cole Palmer went down under a challenge from Luke O’Nien, but the video assistant referee ruled the contact began outside the area.

Alonso criticised Chelsea’s defending rather than the officials. “I’m not happy with how we defended that situation,” he said of the penalty, adding that it was something the team had worked on during the week.

The match was Chelsea’s first this season with a three-man midfield and their second in a row without a recognised striker. Pedro Neto again led the line, while midfielder Moisés Caicedo filled in at centre-back after Colwill was substituted at half-time.

Injuries and changes

Chelsea have made 24 changes to their starting line-up in the league this season, more than all but Tottenham, according to BBC Sport. Injuries have contributed: captain Reece James, forward João Pedro and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez have all been unavailable, while defender Maxence Lacroix is expected to be out until January. Alonso also said Josh Acheampong had told him he was not ready to play.

The changes have not settled the side’s performances. Chelsea had 68.7% possession at Sunderland but created few clear chances. They have also conceded 50 shots on target this season, a total exceeded only by Crystal Palace, while leading the league with 53 shots on target of their own.

Alonso said before the campaign that he wanted Chelsea to be “unpredictable”. But the defeat leaves the manager still searching for a consistent approach, even as the team’s league position is stronger than at the equivalent point last season. Chelsea go into the November international break fifth, with Alonso saying he expects them to be “different” and “better” by the end of the season.