“Relief is the correct word”

Chelsea interim boss Calum McFarlane admitted that ending the Blues’ winless run was a ‘relief’ following their 1-0 win over Leeds United in the FA Cup semi-final.

McFarlane was reappointed as Chelsea’s interim manager on April 22, after Liam Rosenior was shown the door following a dismal run of results.

Prior to the clash against Leeds, Chelsea had won just one of their last eight matches across all competitions. In his third game in charge as interim coach, McFarlane helped the west London club arrest their slide, taking them to their 17th FA Cup final and their first since 2022.

“Relief is the correct word,” McFarlane told TNT Sports post-match. “We were confident going into the game. We had a good three days but you never know. We wanted to shift the momentum; our form hasn’t been great.”

McFarlane previously took interim charge of the club for two games following Enzo Maresca’s departure in January. The 40-year-old was part of Rosenior’s backroom staff, but he started the season as coach of the U-21 squad.

McFarlane singles out Chelsea star for praise after FA Cup win over Leeds

In another post-match interview, McFarlane lauded the performance of Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez after his saves proved invaluable at Wembley.

While the Stamford Bridge outfit were the better side overall, Sanchez was tested on numerous occasions, making three saves, including two from inside the box. The shutout also meant the Blues recorded their first clean sheet since April 12.

Speaking to BBC Match of the Day, McFarlane spoke highly of Sanchez, saying the Spaniard was at his best, and adding that he is one of the best in the world in such moments.

“Robert Sanchez’s saves were massive for us. We haven’t kept enough clean sheets recently, so I’m really pleased for the whole team, especially the back line and Rob to get that today,” McFarlane said.

“That’s Rob Sanchez at his best. That’s what we expect from him. That’s what he’s capable of doing. He’s one of the best in the world in those moments, and thankfully for as he delivered today.”

Chelsea will face Manchester City in the FA Cup final on May 16. City booked their spot in the showpiece of the competition a day earlier after defeating Championship side Southampton 2-1. The FA Cup is the Blues’ only chance of silverware this season, and they will look to win it for the first time since 2018.