Rosenior claims Chelsea possess something 'special'

Liam Rosenior stated that Chelsea's remarkable recovery from a two-goal deficit to defeat West Ham 3-2 on Saturday demonstrated that his team possesses something "special".

Rosenior's team were behind due to first-half strikes from Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville at Stamford Bridge.

However, Chelsea disregarded the boos from frustrated supporters at half-time and mounted an impressive comeback in the second period.

Joao Pedro pulled one back before Marc Cucurella nodded in the leveller.

For the first occasion in Premier League history, Chelsea overturned a two-goal half-time deficit to secure victory, with captain Fernandez scoring in added time.

"The key lesson for me is the spirit, fight, and resilience within this squad that I truly appreciate," Rosenior remarked.

"We lack frequent training opportunities, yet we discussed responding constructively to challenges. That response appeared in the second half, unlike the first.

"We've faced numerous matches in quick succession. I worried about depleted energy levels, not commitment, but our choices were subpar in the opening half. Decisions on ball retention and pressing were off the mark.

"West Ham dominated clearly. Our half-time response led to a superior second half, indicating we have something truly exceptional if I manage the squad effectively."

Chelsea rose to fourth place in the Premier League, with Rosenior joining Bobby Gould, Sam Allardyce, and Craig Shakespeare as only the fourth English manager to triumph in his initial three top-flight fixtures.

Rosenior has guided the team to six victories in seven outings across all tournaments since taking over from Enzo Maresca upon his arrival from Strasbourg.

The pinnacle of Rosenior's strong beginning occurred on Wednesday, as the Blues rallied from 2-1 behind to overcome Napoli 3-2 in Italy, clinching advancement to the Champions League knockout stage.

Yet this triumph was perhaps more striking, considering how Rosenior reversed fortunes following Chelsea's dismal first half.

Rosenior's choice of three substitutions at the interval was pivotal, enabling Chelsea's resurgence.

"Individually and as a unit, our first-half showing fell far short of the required standard," he added. 

"The players substituted will face scrutiny, but it was not their fault alone. It stemmed from a team-wide shortfall in the first half.

"Those individuals understand that I opt for prompt alterations. It does not imply they are sidelined from my plans. 

"The opening half lacked vigour, whereas the second embodied precisely what I sought."