Chelsea captain John Terry has issued a rallying cry to his team-mates as the defending champions look to end their slump against London rivals Tottenham on Sunday.
Chelsea's 1-0 defeat by Marseille in their final Champions League Group F game, courtesy of an 81st winner from Brandao, left the Blues with just two wins out of the last eight in all competitions. It also left coach Carlo Ancelotti in a dark mood as Chelsea now embark on a period of matches that could define their season.
Terry said: "There is no point us panicking. We realise we are not playing as well as we can, the players realise there is a lot more to give and to come."
Chelsea face fixtures against Tottenham, Manchester United and Arsenal but Terry added: "Sunday is a massive derby for us and for the fans. We're hoping to kick-start an important time for us."
Ancelotti looked defeated, dejected and dismayed by the latest setback but vowed he had the strength to get through the tough times.
"We had an opportunity to move on out of this period," said Ancelotti. "We lost this opportunity because we didn't win and we didn't play so well. I'm not low - I'm strong.
"I want to resolve this problem quickly. I'm focused on my job. This is normal. I think my players have that same focus. I'm sure of this.
"But we have to keep going and look forward. We have a great opportunity against Tottenham, a difficult game away against a top team.
"But we must consider that a good opportunity. Now everyone thinks we will lose that game. For this, we need to prepare that game well and try to win it.
"We have to consider this a great opportunity for us. Not a problem. We don't have to lose composure, character, our ability. We have to maintain confidence for the future."
Source: PA
