Liam Rosenior cut a frustrated figure after Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle, admitting his side lacked the cutting edge to break down a well-organised visiting defence despite dominating large spells of the game.

Anthony Gordon’s first-half counter-attack strike was the difference, and Rosenior was candid about how it came about.

“There was an issue in cover and understanding on the press,” he said. “That’ll come. It’s new in terms of what we’re asking the players to do but we’re talking about one moment, the rest of the game our press was very good.”

The Chelsea manager was more concerned with what happened at the other end. “The problem with us wasn’t without the ball. The problem was the final third. We got there many times, created chances but weren’t ruthless enough to take them.

“Every time the ball bounced in the box, it fell behind our player instead of in front of them, or they defended it with blocks.”

Rosenior also pointed to the absence of several key wide players. “Jamie Gittens who is almost back. Estevao. Pedro Neto was suspended. It’s not an excuse, it’s reality.”