Chelsea may have started the post-Jose Mourinho era with a comfortable victory against Sunderland – but the shadow of the former manager hung heavily over Stamford Bridge.
The Blues’ fans delivered almost unanimous backing for Mourinho, with banners all around Stamford Bridge declaring support, while Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas were jeered before and during the game by supporters who clearly believe they have been central to the sacked manager’s downfall.
Branislav Ivanovic’s towering fifth-minute header put Chelsea on the way and victory was effectively confirmed against the struggling Black Cats when Pedro pounced on a loose ball before half-time.
Guus Hiddink, confirmed as Chelsea boss until the end of the season hours before the game, watched from the stands alongside former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba and club owner Roman Abramovich as Oscar added a third from the spot after Costel Pantilimon fouled Willian.
Fabio Borini pulled one back for Sunderland when he bundled in from close range, but this day was so much about Mourinho.
Mourinho wins backing from The Bridge
It was clear before kick-off that Chelsea’s fans were pointing the finger of blame firmly in the direction of under-performing players for Mourinho’s dismissal on Thursday.
Banners were unfurled emblazoned with the words “You Let Jose Down. You Let Us Down” and “The Three Rats – Hazard, Cesc and Costa”.
Chelsea’s players were also on the receiving end of x-rated chants collectively when each goal Chelsea scored was instantly greeted with chants for Mourinho.
The Portuguese may have gone – but he has not been forgotten.
Chelsea revived
Chelsea were on the floor before this game as they stood only one point off the relegation places in 16th position. And while a very poor Sunderland helped them to their feet, there certainly seemed to be a great freedom to the champions’ play.
Oscar, cheered by Chelsea’s fans, was his usual self but there was a zip about their early play that suggested a pressure valve had been released by the managerial change.
Chelsea’s fans directed a colourful chant in the players’ direction asking where they, and the performance they had produced against Sunderland, had been this season.
Any hope for Sunderland?
Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce is an expert at keeping teams in the Premier League but he has his work cut out at The Stadium Of Light.
The Black Cats have no pace at the back if he persists with Sebastian Coates, Younes Kaboul and John O’Shea, while Jack Rodwell’s promise has been stripped away by injuries and Jermain Defoe’s best goalscoring days are way behind him.
Allardyce will need some fast work in the markets in January because he currently represents Sunderland’s best, perhaps only, hope of staying up.
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By: BBC