Chelsea star Kalidou Koulibaly makes damning ‘form’ admission before linking up with Senegal for World Cup

Chelsea defenderKalidou Koulibaly says their form before the international break for the World Cup is not good enough and they will have to be better if they are to challenge for the titles this season.

The former Napoli defender featured in the 1-0 defeat to Newcastle which has left Chelsea with four defeats in all competitions. New manager Graham Potter is running against time to turn the tide even though he will be able to enjoy a mini-preseason with half the squad that is not participating in the World Cup.

Koulibaly who has now joined the Senegal team admits missing key players has been part of the reason it’s been tough in the last few days.

He told the club’s official website: “We have to be sad after losing in Newcastle. We wanted to get the three points but it was a tough game.

“Newcastle played well, they played with a lot of intensity and it was difficult for us with all the injuries we have and all the pressure they put on us.

“It was a bit tough and we are sad that we lost this game because we wanted more and we didn’t get it. We have to work hard because we are far from first place in the Premier League.

“We need to know that we are not in a good place. We need to keep on working, keep on believing. For the supporters it is hard to lose again because it is three games in a row that we lose and it is difficult for us and it is difficult for them.

“So we have to get back after the World Cup with another mentality, and a mentality to win the games and to get points.”