Denis Zakaria has revealed that Chelsea players feel bad for supporters - and warned the Blues must improve ahead of their Champions League meeting with Real Madrid.
Zakaria started his first game since January against Brighton on Saturday but struggled along with the rest of the team as Chelsea lost 2-1 at Stamford Bridge.
Frank Lampard’s side were well-beaten and their display did little to suggest they are capable of a comeback against Real on Tuesday after they lost the first leg 2-0 in Madrid last week.
Speaking ahead of that game, Zakaria admitted Chelsea were “bad” against Brighton and revealed Lampard had honest words with the squad about their performance.
The Swiss midfielder said: “It wasn’t enough, we were bad. We have to do way better. What was said stays between the coach, the owners and the team.
“Yes, I think it is good [that Lampard is honest] because we need more. We are not good. It is tough.
“It is difficult and we feel bad for the fans because we cannot play like that. It is tough and we have to do better. It is hard.”
Winning the Champions League is now Chelsea’s only hope of qualifying for the competition next season, but they face an uphill task against holders Real.
Zakaria added: “We are now going to do everything we can to come through the game against Real Madrid and win this game. We will give everything until the end.”
