SARRI: SPURS LEFT US FUL OF JITTERS

FROM FRONT PAGE days after Tottenham for me and the players, but I think that we have thought too much about that match.

“We lost a match after three-and-ahalf months. It can happen. So today it was important to react. I think the team reacted really very well in the Europa League [a 4-0 win over PAOK].

“Today was more important, of course, and I think in the minds of the players there was only the result.”

N’Golo Kante set up Chelsea’s first goal with a trademark interception and perfectly-timed pass for Pedro.

The France star was criticised by Sarri in midweek, but yesterday his boss said: “He played very well. He defended very well. He needs, I think, to improve a little more from the tactical point of view, but it’s natural.

“In the national team he usually plays with the two midfielders. Last season, sometimes with two midfielders and sometimes three, but in the same position. So I think it’s normal he needs to improve.” Sarri also praised LoftusCheek, who scored his fifth goal in his last six Chelsea games.

He added: “In the last three weeks, he’s solved problems for me. In the Europa League

I think he played the best from a tactical point of view.”