Jose Mourinho has warned his former club Chelsea that they risk ceasing to be a big club if they get used to losing against top opponents despite playing well.
The Blues lost 2-1 at home to Liverpool on Sunday but showed encouraging signs in the second half.
But Mourinho is adamant that is not enough for Frank Lampard to be content and that there is a risk the Blues “stop being a big club”.
“I hope they don’t get used to it (losing) – that’s the important thing," Mourinho told Sky Sports.
“When you start accepting defeats just because your team play well and your players gave it their best, in terms of their application and commitment.
“I think when you get used to it, big clubs stop being big clubs. It shows people are ready for the season and ready to accept what the season is going to be under a manager who is one of the best professionals and a potentially top manager.
“The numbers say Liverpool are 10 points ahead of Chelsea – they aren’t going to fight for the title.”
The Blues have now lost back-to-back games at Stamford Bridge and next face Grimsby Town in the League Cup on Wednesday.
Brighton then visit the Blues at the weekend in the Premier League.
