Thomas Tuchel: 'Kepa Arrizabalaga not to blame for EFL Cup final defeat'

Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel has defended the decision to introduce goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga specifically for the EFL Cup final shootout against Liverpool.

After a thrilling 120 minutes had ended goalless, the Wembley showdown went to penalties with Arrizabalaga missing the only spot kick after 21 successful efforts in a row, handing Liverpool a record-breaking ninth victory in the competition.

The Spaniard, who had played every minute en route to the final, had been introduced with a minute of extra time remaining, but the gamble failed to pay off for Blues boss Tuchel.

Speaking to reporters at a press conference, Tuchel said: "We feel bad for him, of course. It was a bit harsh that he was the guy to miss the one and only penalty but there is no blame.

"I take the decisions when I take the decisions and I can't re-judge them when I know the outcome. We don't know what would've happened if we left Edou on the pitch. No blame on Kepa.

"Blame on me as I'm the guy who takes the decisions. Sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn't. This is life as a football coach."

Tuchel used the same tactics for the European Super Cup final in August, with Arrizabalaga going on to help Chelsea defeat Villarreal.