McFarlane hails Chelsea 'character' after FA Cup semi-final win

TL;DR

Chelsea interim manager Calum McFarlane praised his team's character after a 1-0 FA Cup semi-final win over Leeds, following Liam Rosenior's sacking. The victory marks Chelsea's return to the FA Cup final for the first time since 2022, where they will face Manchester City on May 16.

Key points

Calum McFarlane praises Chelsea's character after FA Cup win
Chelsea beat Leeds 1-0 to reach the FA Cup final
Liam Rosenior was sacked after poor Premier League performance
Enzo Fernandez scored the winning goal against Leeds
Chelsea will face Manchester City in the final on May 16

Mentioned in this story

Calum McFarlaneLiam RoseniorEnzo FernandezPep Guardiola

ChelseaLeedsManchester City

Chelsea interim manager Calum McFarlane (L) celebrates their win over Leeds. (Ben STANSALL) Chelsea interim manager Calum McFarlane praised his players' "character" after they responded to Liam Rosenior's sacking by beating Leeds 1-0 in the FA Cup semi-finals on Sunday. McFarlane took over with Chelsea in turmoil following Rosenior's exit on Wednesday after just three months in charge. The Blues have lost their last five Premier League games without scoring in their worst run since 1912. That dismal sequence cost Rosenior his job and effectively ruined Chelsea's hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League. Rosenior's difficult relationship with Chelsea's stars was key to his downfall. But McFarlane, who was part of Rosenior's backroom staff, was able to coax a more positive performance from them at Wembley. "We had to weather some storm and show a bit of character and grit while they threw everything at us. Probably the character was the most pleasing part," McFarlane said. "I think those lads showed how much they want to win and what they were willing to do to win a really important football game for the club." Chelsea are back in the FA Cup final for the first time since 2022 as they look to win the competition for the first time since 2018. They will face Manchester City in the showpiece on May 16 and McFarlane knows victory over Pep Guardiola's men would partially salvage Chelsea's troubled campaign. "Relief is the correct word. 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," he said. "We knew Leeds would think we were vulnerable. We knew we were in a bit of a vulnerable place. "Then we started to take control of the game. 's saves were massive for us. We haven't kept enough clean sheets recently."

Q&A

What did Calum McFarlane say about Chelsea's performance against Leeds?

Calum McFarlane praised his players' character, stating they showed grit and determination during the match.

When is the FA Cup final where Chelsea will face Manchester City?

The FA Cup final is scheduled for May 16.

Why was Liam Rosenior sacked as Chelsea manager?

Liam Rosenior was sacked after Chelsea lost five consecutive Premier League games without scoring, leading to a poor performance and a difficult relationship with the players.

How did Enzo Fernandez perform in the FA Cup semi-final against Leeds?

Enzo Fernandez scored the winning goal and showcased his fighting spirit, returning to form after a turbulent relationship with the previous manager.