Chelsea chaos not a distraction for Maresca

Enzo Maresca maintained that the rumours surrounding his position at Chelsea have caused no disruption following the teams hard fought 2-2 draw with Newcastle on Saturday.

Chelseas squad appeared headed for a heavy defeat at St Jamess Park after Newcastles forward Nicolas Woltemade struck twice before the interval.

However Reece Jamess excellent free kick coupled with an outstanding solo effort from Joao Pedro sparked Chelseas remarkable comeback preserving their chances of securing a top four spot in the Premier League.

This resilient performance came at a crucial time for Chelsea amid a challenging period for their coach.

Maresca had to refute connections to Manchester City on Thursday amid claims he could replace Pep Guardiola.

Such talk emerged shortly after Marescas passionate outburst regarding insufficient backing after their victory against Everton last weekend.

Interpreted as criticism of Chelseas leadership the Italian expressed that he and his team lacked support during their slump.

Maresca reaffirmed his dedication to Chelsea in the wake of his candid remarks which suggested tensions within the clubs power structure at Stamford Bridge.

Nevertheless amid the current turmoil at Chelsea Maresca insists his attention stays firmly on the field.

"My recent week has been straightforward and positive. We defeated Everton triumphed over Cardiff and secured a draw at Newcastle so regarding outcomes I am content," he stated.

"Certainly there are aspects we can improve yet I believe we are progressing correctly."

Chelsea did not perform at their peak versus Newcastle as Woltemades goals exposed defensive lapses before Jamess brilliance roused them.

"I feel Newcastle merited the win after the opening period undoubtedly. From my perspective post halftime we earned the victory. That is my view," Maresca commented.

"Following our second goal we created three or four solid opportunities for another but in general the draw seems just."

Newcastles manager Eddie Howe expressed frustration after his team was refused what he called an obvious penalty while ahead 2-1.

Official Andy Madley dismissed calls for a penalty over Trevoh Chalobahs 53rd minute challenge on Anthony Gordon using his shoulder and this decision was upheld by VAR referee Peter Bankes.

"In any other area of the field that would be an obvious free kick. Once it reached VAR I assumed it would be reversed as it was a glaring mistake. It is one of the most evident penalties I have witnessed," Howe remarked.

"The opponent targeted Ant solely. They claimed it was shielding but I disagree with that assessment. I am truly let down that it was not awarded."

Newcastle who struggled in their recent derby loss to Sunderland last Sunday seemed poised to overcome that setback before faltering after the break.

"It is marred by significant regret for us," Howe added.

"I am deeply disappointed for the squad. We earned the win in my view at least."