Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho says it is not impossible for his side to successfully defend the Premier League title despite their start to the new season.
The Blues are now 10 points off top flight pace-setters Manchester City after defeat to Southampton on Saturday evening. Willian put the Blues in front at Stamford Bridge but Southampton hit back through Steven Davis before the break and the visitors piled more misery on Mourinho's men in the second period.
After Radamel Falcao had been controversially denied a penalty with the score level at 1-1, Sadio Mane then Graziano Pelle put the game beyond the hosts and ensured their recent run of form extended beyond a blip.
But Mourinho came out fighting in his post-match comments, hitting out at referees before warning the club hierarchy against 'sacking the best manager they've ever had'.
The west London club have had seven different managers since Mourinho last departed in 2007 but the Portguese boss believes it is still within the realms of possibility for Chelsea to again lift the title in May.
"Its time for the club to act in a different way – one of stability, of trust. Three months ago we were all together with the Cups. It’s time for us to be together now at the bottom of the league.
"In December, January or February we’ll be top four. To be champions it will be difficult because of the gap.It's not impossible but difficult. Top four – is not easy – but doable. With such a start, if you finish top four, its because you kept balance. "
