Cesar Azpilicueta says frustration from Chelsea fans is understandable but has urged the club’s supporters to ‘create a great atmosphere’ on Wednesday against Brighton.
Chants of ‘we want Sarri out’ and ‘f**k Sarri-ball’ were heard as Chelsea fell behind to relegation-battlers Cardiff City on Sunday.
But the Blues mounted a late comeback, scoring two goals in the last six minutes of the game to snatch victory and ease the pressure on manager Maurizio Sarri.
Asked about the dissenting fans and their treatment of Sarri, Chelsea defender Azpilicueta – who scored in the Cardiff win – said: ‘I cannot complain about the fans.
‘We have to give them something to enjoy on the pitch. With recent performances, it is normal they are not happy. It’s up to us to turn this around.
‘We have always had their support in the bad moments, and when things are going well, we all enjoy them together.
‘We have a great chance starting Wednesday [against Brighton] at the Bridge to play a great game and create a great atmosphere.’
The controversial 2-1 victory ensures Chelsea remain sixth in the Premier League, just one point below third-placed Tottenham.
But Azpilicueta says the team must improve if they are to finish in the top four.
He added: ‘I think in the last couple of games, the performances have not been at our level.
‘We didn’t create a lot of chances, we conceded goals in an easy way. I think there is a lot to improve.
‘We are nearly at the end of the season so we must step up. Yesterday we showed great character because we normally don’t come back from bad results.
‘Yesterday was the second time in the Premier League that we did so. We got the three points but we have to be critical and we know we have to do better.’
Chelsea face a Brighton team on Wednesday who had won successive Premier League fixtures before being beaten by Southampton at the weekend.
The Seagulls are currently 15th in the top-flight, five points clear of the relegation zone.
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