Merson: If Chelsea don’t get Champions League it’s a massive failure

Writing for Sky Sports, columnist Paul Merson argues that Chelsea's lack of consistency under Xabi Alonso will cost them Champions League qualification. Following a 1-0 defeat to Sunderland courtesy of Enzo Le Fee's penalty, Chelsea sit fifth in the Premier League table with two losses in their last three matches, facing pressure from chasing teams such as Everton and Bournemouth.

Merson claims that missing out on the Champions League would represent a massive failure for Chelsea, criticizing Alonso's decision to bench Estevao. He also highlights Levi Colwill's difficult performance against Brian Brobbey before being substituted at half-time, suggesting Chelsea's star players are waiting for others to produce moments of magic instead of stepping up themselves.