Calum McFarlane wants Chelsea to use reaching FA Cup final in league resurgence

McFarlane was put in temporary charge of the Blues for the FA Cup semifinal clash against Leeds following the sacking of Liam Rosenior and oversaw a 2-0 victory at Wembley on Sunday.

Enzo Fernandez scored the game's decisive goal with a header in the first half as Chelsea hit back following five straight defeats in the league without scoring a goal.

"It was important to break the momentum and the form that we were in," McFarlane told reporters after the victory.

"That completely changes the feel in the group and gives us confidence going into the next five games."

Chelsea now have an opportunity to win a first domestic trophy since 2018 when they take on Manchester City in the FA Cup final next month.

McFarlane also took charge of the Chelsea first team after the departure of Enzo Maresca in January, overseeing a 1-1 draw against Man City in the league.

"I knew what I was stepping into," he said. "It's easier this time because I have a relationship with the players and I've worked with them for three or four months now.

"I've been a part of the backroom staff, so I had a feel for what they needed psychologically. It's been intense."