Florent Malouda shrugs off Chelsea defeat to Sunderland

16 November 2010 12:24
Florent Malouda has played down the significance of Chelsea's shock defeat by Sunderland and insisted: 'We have the players to defend our title.'[LNB] The Blues were beaten 3-0 at home by the Black Cats and now lead Arsenal in the Barclays Premier League by only two points. [LNB]But Malouda, currently preparing for France's international with England at Wembley on Wednesday, insists it was only a blip for Carlo Ancelotti's team. [LNB] Shell shocked: Malouda, Didier Drogba (left) and Nicolas Anelka (right) on Sunday[LNB]He said: 'Whatever people might say, we are still first in the league and that means that we have lost less points than our opponents. [LNB]'The sort of result against Sunderland can happen in the Premier League. [LNB]'We have had a great home record and now we have to start again. But we have the players to defend our title and there is nothing more to add to that. [LNB]'Our confidence has not been shaken. It is a long season and anyone can have a slight dip in form - whether it is a team or an individual. [LNB]'Like I said, we are still first in the league and were also one of the first to qualify out of our group for the Champions League. We will come through this spell.'[LNB] Malouda's own form has come under the microscope in recent weeks with French coach Laurent Blanc suggesting a dip in fortunes had coincided with Chelsea's mini slump. [LNB]Malouda said: 'I was injured recently so it has been a bit of a tough period. But it is much more important to me that Chelsea have had a great start to the season rather than issues over my personal form. [LNB]'That doesn't mean to say I lack ambition but for me it's about Chelsea starting well.' [LNB] Chelsea 0 Sunderland 3: Black Cats spring surprise of the season with stunning win at Stamford Bridge to dent leadersBlue Sunday: Ancelotti rues his 'worst day' as Sunderland thrash championsJohn Terry injury shock: Chronic leg nerve problem may rule Chelsea captain out for monthsMartin Samuel: Carlo offers Chelsea a ray of hope amid the Roman ruinsCHELSEA FC

Source: Daily_Mail