The Blues suffered their third defeat of the league campaign following a 2-1 loss to Fulham . The Cottagers beat them at Stamford Bridge for the first time in 45 years.

Speaking after the game, Maresca was asked why Felix was not introduced despite the Blues' struggles in the final third in the derby.

The Italian said that Felix plays in more or less the same position as Cole Palmer and he wanted more balance in the attack front.

He told reporters: "João plays more or less the same position as Cole Palmer . They played together already but it’s also a matter of balance. That’s why he didn’t enter today."

Chelsea were well in the title race two games ago, but the scenario has completely changed with one point from the last two outings.

The Blues could drop to third in the table if Arsenal beat Ipswich Town.

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