Mauricio Pochettino, the Chelsea manager, has issued a stern warning to his players following a controversial incident during their recent match against Everton. Despite securing a resounding 6-0 victory, the game was marred by a dispute over penalty duties among teammates.
In the aftermath of Chelsea’s biggest win under his leadership, Pochettino expressed his dismay at the altercation, emphasizing the importance of unity within the team. He made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated in the future.
“It’s a shame,” remarked Pochettino. “If we want to be a big team fighting for big things, we have to think more about the collective. I won’t accept that this happens again.”
The incident occurred when Cole Palmer stepped up to take a penalty, aiming to score his fourth goal of the match. However, Noni Madueke and Nicolas Jackson engaged in a dispute over who should take the spot-kick, prompting captain Conor Gallagher to intervene and ensure Palmer continued his perfect record from the spot this season.
Despite the controversy, Palmer remained unfazed and successfully converted the penalty, drawing level with Manchester City striker Erling Haaland on 20 Premier League goals in the race for the Golden Boot.
Addressing the incident, Palmer reaffirmed his position as the designated penalty taker and downplayed its significance. “Other players wanted to take it, but I am the penalty taker and I wanted to take it,” said Palmer. “We are showing everyone is wanting to take responsibility.”