Mauricio Pochettino believes we deserved our 1-0 win over Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round – and hopes his players can build on the momentum generated by the victory at Stamford Bridge.
After a frustrating Premier League defeat to Aston Villa on Sunday, a reaction was needed. Chelsea's players delivered.
Nicolas Jackson proved the match-winner as he finished well from an intelligent Cole Palmer pass in the 50th minute. The Senegal international did add a second but was unfortunate to see the goal ruled offside.
‘It was a good response from the team; I’m very pleased with the performance again,' explained Pochettino.
'I’m happy for the victory and I think it’s important to go through in the competition, build our trust and the momentum. Hopefully, we can take this momentum into the future.’
The Argentine continued: 'It’s never easy to play in the situation and circumstance. Today was a must-win.
'Of course, the uncertainty and sometimes the pressure to win means not to be perfect in our positions [on the pitch]. But I think in the second half we dominated the game and fully deserved the victory.'
Jackson's goal was his second in blue following his summer switch from Villarreal. It was a strike that rewarded another tireless performance from the 22-year-old.
‘I'm very pleased for him,' said Pochettino. 'When a striker scores it’s always important. He needed to feel the net. It was an important game for him.’
The Chelsea head coach also provided an update on the fitness of Ben Chilwell, who was forced off in second half stoppage time.
'We need to assess tomorrow,' Pochettino. 'But I think it’s a hamstring.'