Thomas Tuchel’s decision to start a back-four against Brentford was a key reason behind Chelsea’s shock defeat at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, according to Paul Merson.
The former Arsenal star-turned-pundit was not impressed by the decision to shift from the Blues’ typical 3-4-2-1 shape to a 4-3-3, which left Thiago Silva and Antonio Rudiger exposed in the centre of the defence throughout the 4-1 defeat.
After the game, Tuchel admitted that it was a purely tactical choice to leave Trevoh Chalobah out of the matchday squad, while the manager had Malang Sarr and Andreas Christensen among his substitutes.
“I just think Chelsea aren't the same team when they don't play a back three,” Merson told Sky Sports.
“I don't think Chelsea are good [playing a back four]. Brentford did their homework; they were very good.
“That's what football is like. Real Madrid will probably come to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday and get beat, that's football. It's a big week for Chelsea. Massive week.
“I expect them to get in the top four still. It would have to be a massive collapse, in my opinion. But, if they keep putting in performances like that, getting beat at home to Brentford, it won't be long before the others close the gap.”
Fellow pundit Michael Owen was also surprised by the Bees’ west London derby romp - which could open the door for Arsenal to finish third.
“Who would have believed that?” he told Premier League productions.
“Chelsea, in good form in the league, losing to Brentford. All of a sudden, you look at the league table and now you think, ‘Are Arsenal going to catch them?’.”
