'We've been too inconsistent' - Calum McFarlane bemoans Chelsea final-day defeat

The final-day clash at the Stadium of Light had carried high stakes for Chelsea, who knew victory could keep their hopes of continental qualification alive for 2026/27.

Instead, it was Sunderland who rose to the occasion, scoring twice either side of half-time to take control of the contest. Trai Hume scored the opening goal for Sunderland, while the second was a Malo Gusto own goal.

Chelsea responded through Cole Palmer, who pulled a goal back with more than half an hour remaining to reignite hopes of a comeback. However, those hopes were dealt a major blow when Wesley Fofana was shown a second yellow card, reducing the visitors to 10 men at a crucial moment.

Despite late pressure, Chelsea could not find an equaliser, and the defeat sealed a disappointing conclusion to the campaign.

Interim head coach Calum McFarlane admitted his frustration after the final whistle.

"It was a disappointing end to the season," he said. "We should be finishing a lot higher up the league. With the talent in this group, we should be in the Champions League. We've been too inconsistent."

McFarlane also reflected on the effort shown by his squad during his interim spell, despite the final outcome.

"They gave us everything every single day. I could ask no more," he added. "We just weren't able to get over the line in the games that mattered."

Looking ahead, Chelsea have already confirmed a change in leadership, with Xabi Alonso appointed as the club's new permanent head coach. Alonso has signed a four-year deal and will officially take charge from July 1, 2026.

McFarlane, meanwhile, is set to remain at the club as part of Alonso's new backroom staff, marking the next step in Chelsea's rebuild after a turbulent season.