Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has told manager Enzo Maresca to either explain his recent comments or keep quiet, following the Italian's cryptic outburst after last weekend's 2-0 win over Everton.
Maresca described the preceding 48 hours as his 'worst' at Stamford Bridge but refused to elaborate, sparking speculation that his remarks were aimed at the club's ownership and sporting directors. When pressed again before the Carabao Cup tie against Cardiff City, he grew irritable and declined to provide further details.
Leboeuf, who spent five years at Chelsea and won five trophies, said the drama should not overshadow the club's urgent need to secure Champions League qualification. 'It's maybe the first time after two losses and one draw he felt the pressure,' Leboeuf told football.london. 'Can we say that sometimes I don't understand you? That's how I feel.'
He added: 'Don't come out with those kind of comments because we don't get it, except that we understand you are under big pressure. No big deal, keep on working and make sure Chelsea qualify for the Champions League next season.'
Chelsea currently sit fourth in the Premier League, but their recent form of two draws and a loss has allowed rivals Sunderland, Liverpool, Manchester United and Crystal Palace to close the gap to two points. Maresca's side face a trip to Newcastle this weekend before hosting Aston Villa after the festive period.
