Mauricio Pochettino calls Chelsea’s 4-1 defeat to Newcastle their ‘worst game of the season’, and admits it was ‘tough’ to watch on from the stands while serving a touchline ban

Mauricio Pochettino has called Chelsea‘s 4-1 defeat to Newcastle their ‘worst game of the season’, as he watched on from the stands following a touchline ban.

The Chelsea boss was forced to watch the lively encounter from the St James’ Park stands, after being booked for dissent in matches against Brighton, Burnley and Manchester City.

And in the moments following the loss, Pochettino hit out at Chelsea’s performance, and said it was difficult for him to watch on, rather than dealing with the issues from the touchline.

Pochettino told Premier League Productions: ‘It was our worst game of the season. It was tough to be in the stands. 

‘We cannot complain about the result, we did not read the game from the beginning. 

Reece James was shown a red card as the Blues fell to a 4-1 defeat at St James’ Park

‘We did not play how we should play, we showed a lack of intensity and energy. Even after we scored, at 1-1, it was a chance for us to force them to play deep, but it was so easy for Newcastle. That is why I am so upset with the performance.

‘It is a young team, they need this type of situation to realise. We will go to the hotel, then train early tomorrow, no time off. 

‘We cannot blame the players, it is the team together. We need to understand the level we need to compete, and learn about this situation.

‘There are many details, many things that build confidence and strength. We already know what is going on, and we will try to change the dynamic.’

Alexander Isak put Newcastle ahead in the opening 15 minutes, before Raheem Sterling scored a corker to level the scores at half-time.

However, Jamaal Lasclles and Joelinton gave the hosts a 3-1 cushion around the hour mark, and Anthony Gordon confirmed the result for the Magpies seven minutes from the end of regulation time.

Reece James was sent off for Chelsea with just over 15 minutes remaining at St James’ Park, which added to the Blues’ woes.  

Chelsea’s next match is a home fixture against Brighton on Sunday December 3.  

Pochettino refused to blame individual players for the defeat, instead questioning the team