Xabi Alonso admits Chelsea need to improve every aspect of their game

The Spaniard returned to the Premier League in June after a brief spell in charge of Real Madrid, where his tenure lasted until January. He arrived at Stamford Bridge following Calum McFarlane's interim stint, which itself came after Liam Rosenior's short-lived tenure.

Alonso initially made an encouraging start, overseeing victories against Fulham, Luton and Brighton across the Premier League and Carabao Cup. However, Chelsea's momentum soon faded with a loss to Arsenal and a dramatic League Cup encounter against Leeds.

"I have the feeling that it will get better, but at the moment, it's just not been good enough," Alonso told Stan Sport.

"We have some positives and some things that can be better. Not just in terms of results, but in games and especially in terms of conceding goals.

"It is something we want to improve. It is not just the defence; it is the attack as well, and the way we attack helps the way we defend.

"Many parts are still in development. There are positives and negatives in this process to become more consistent."

A 2-2 home draw with Hull was followed by a 3-0 defeat at Brentford immediately before the international break.

The 44-year-old was appointed as Chelsea's first manager under the Clearlake ownership after a succession of head coaches.