Chelsea Interim Coach McFarlane Concedes Champions League Dream Slipping Away Yet Pushes for Optimism

McFarlane, who came back for another term as temporary manager last month after Chelsea removed Liam Rosenior due to a sequence of five defeats, kicked off with a 1-0 triumph against Leeds United, which clinched their spot in the FA Cup final.

Sitting eighth in the Premier League with 48 points, Chelsea will take on Nottingham Forest at home on Monday, and McFarlane adopted a pragmatic outlook when asked about the fading chances of Champions League qualification.

I think you are correct in stating that. We must focus on winning our matches and ignore everything else, he informed journalists on Friday.

We require the supporters to provide upbeat vibes and support the squad. There remains plenty at stake.

Chelsea are set to meet Manchester City in the FA Cup final on May 16th, and McFarlane noted that the previous weeks success had boosted morale at Stamford Bridge.

It is always tough when the team is underperforming and failing to secure wins, he added.

It is remarkable how a single victory can transform the mood and environment within the squad.

Regarding injuries, McFarlane mentioned that skipper Reece James, recuperating from a hamstring issue, along with defender Levi Colwill, have resumed training sessions.

We are some distance from the match, so we will assess their progress, but both appear to be on a good path, he commented.

Levi endured a lengthy spell out, while Reece enjoyed a solid period before getting hurt once more, so we avoid rushing them back.