New-look Blues give Pochettino plenty of reasons to believe

LONDON — Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino said he was disappointed just to take a point from his opening match in charge after his side came from behind to draw 1-1 with Liverpool on Sunday.

The visitor settled into the new season quicker at Stamford Bridge and could have been out of sight inside the first 30 minutes.

Mo Salah hit the crossbar before teeing up Luis Diaz to open the scoring. Salah then saw a second goal ruled out after a VAR review for offside.

But the momentum swung back Chelsea's way after debutant Axel Disasi equalized eight minutes before halftime.

VAR intervened once more to deny the Blues a second when Ben Chilwell scored and the home side wasted a series of chances to secure three points after the break.

Pochettino took over a side that finished 12th last season — Chelsea's lowest finishing position since 1994.

And the Argentine believes the Blues will only improve as the season goes on.

"Fantastic way to start the season, unbelievable game," said Pochettino, who previously managed Southampton and Tottenham in the Premier League.

"Overall I think we deserve a little bit more. We feel pleased and at the same time disappointed. That is only the beginning and I am so pleased with the performance of the players."

Chelsea and Liverpool have spent recent days battling for the signing of Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo for a Premier League record fee.

Liverpool had an offer of 110 million pounds ($140 million) for the Ecuadorian accepted by the Seagulls, but Chelsea and Brighton have now reportedly agreed a price of 115 million pounds, with reports suggesting the player turned down the chance to join Liverpool and wants to join the west London club.

"If we want to be a contender we need to improve in all areas," added Pochettino.

"It's time to work all together, once the transfer window closes, to find the best dynamic. This result makes us believe, that is why I am positive."

Liverpool is in even more desperate need of midfield reinforcements after losing Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to the Saudi Pro League.

After a bright start, the Reds' defense was easily picked apart with an attack-minded midfield offering little protection.

"The start was pretty convincing," said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp. "We scored two wonderful goals, one was disallowed for an offside.

"We opened up the door for Chelsea, we lost the ball in moments where it was difficult to prepare for it. It gave the game a different direction, so we were not in control of the game."

Klopp insisted he is still "really looking forward" to the season ahead.

Liverpool is aiming to bounce back after missing out on Champions League qualification last season for the first time in seven years.

"Today didn't decide where our season will go, it's just important information," added Klopp. "This team deserves so much trust, they will go for it!"

AFP