Rosenior delighted as Chelsea overcome major challenge in victory over Palace

Liam Rosenior described the match as a significant challenge that Chelsea successfully navigated with their 3-1 triumph against Crystal Palace on Sunday, further solidifying his strong beginning as manager of the Blues.

Since taking over from Enzo Maresca and joining from Strasbourg, the 41-year-old has guided Chelsea to four victories in five outings across all competitions.

His sole loss occurred in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final versus Arsenal, marking him as the first Chelsea head coach since Graham Potter to claim six points from the initial two Premier League fixtures.

Estevao Willian netted the opener in the 34th minute, then assisted Joao Pedro shortly after half-time.

Midfielder Enzo Fernandez converted a penalty for Chelsea, with Chris Richards pulling one back late for struggling Palace, who saw Adam Wharton dismissed in the second period.

"Today represented a major challenge," Rosenior commented. "I altered our formation, and the display from the players fills me with satisfaction, as nearly all of the pressing and positioning was spot on.

"The team appears committed and confident in their approach. However, it is just one match, so maintaining consistency across every fixture remains crucial."

Upon Roseniors arrival, Chelsea had secured just one win in their prior nine Premier League encounters.

They now occupy fifth position in the pursuit of qualification for next years Champions League.

Rosenior acknowledged upon his appointment the need to start strongly to counter doubts from those suggesting he might simply comply with the clubs leadership.

Strasbourg, a French outfit under the same ownership as Chelsea, prompted queries regarding the choice to install him after the exit of the assertive Maresca.

"My mind is not on personal relief or emotions," Rosenior stated. "I am solely concentrated on the task at hand, which is vitally important."

The team from west London heads to Napoli on Wednesday aiming to clinch advancement to the Champions League knockout stage.

Currently eighth and holding the last direct spot, a loss could relegate them to a play-off.

Even with this promising launch to his tenure, Rosenior urges caution.

"We face another critical encounter on Wednesday. I keep emphasising that overconfidence is unwise. Several aspects demand prompt improvement," he added.

"The final 10 minutes left me dissatisfied. I believe we ought to have asserted even greater control."