Once upon a time, Chelsea's defence was like a concrete wall...

Another two goals conceded in Birmingham. The negative harvest is constantly increasing. There used to be a "fortress" at the back and scoring against Chelsea was one of the most difficult assignments. This now seems far away. The goals conceded by the "blues" this year, took... three seasons time to reach these levels, during the Mourinho era!

Once upon a time, Chelsea's defence was like a concrete wall...

By KONSTANTINOS ZALIARIS

The reaction after their 2-0 first-half deficit at Villa Park on Saturday night is far more important at the moment.

The point for Chelsea was secured with a 2-2 final and if VAR had allowed it, it would have been a huge come-back that would have helped Pochettino's side tremendously, not least mentally.

The goal deficit for the Blues this season has soared to 59. And there are still five games for Chelsea on the schedule until 19/05 and the end of the league.

It is perfectly reasonable and expected to increase the number of goals the team will have conceded when they cross the finish line.

What is the interesting fact here? In Jose Mourinho's first term at Stamford Bridge, from 2004 to 2007, Chelsea conceded 61 goals. In three seasons. This year the club reached these levels in 33 matches...

Of course this year's defensive performance is the worst since the 1991-1992 season of 60 goals, but that too will obviously be surpassed. And the team will... compete with the even worst record of 69 goals during '90-'91...