'Indefensible' and 'unacceptable' - furious Rosenior questions Chelsea's desire
The Blues are now without a clean sheet in any of their past 12 Premier League games - it is only the second time the Blues have had as long a run in the competition. Chelsea's xG in the first half against Brighton (0. 04) was lower than they had in any of Enzo Maresca's 114 halves of Premier League football as Chelsea boss.
It was also the longest they have gone into a Premier League game this season before attempting their first shot (41st minute). Only West Ham (15) have conceded more goals from corners than Chelsea (11) in the Premier League this season, with 11 the joint-most for the Blues in a campaign in the competition (level with 1994-95). For much of the match, supporters directed their frustration towards the hierarchy, while also chanting for former owner Roman Abramovich.
Such song have been a recurring feature of Chelsea 's away support over the past 18 months and are increasingly being heard at Stamford Bridge. However, this was the first occasion on which Rosenior himself became the target of supporter anger, amid a growing sense that a sixth managerial change under the Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly ownership group may be approaching. Chelsea 's stance has been that they will back Rosenior into next season with the intention to reserve judgement until the end of the next campaign.
The hierarchy increasingly accept they have made multiple managerial mistakes and are searching for stability. In a rare interview earlier this month, influential co-owner Eghbali said: "I think we're behind Liam. Of course, it's a results business, but we think he can be successful long term.
" However, two further defeats have worsened the situation and the fans have since turned, making it a more difficult decision to keep Rosenior than make a change. Asked about supporters turning on him, Rosenior said: "I understand the supporters' frustration. It's my job as head coach and manager - the buck stops with me.