Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri: 'I won't use five defenders'

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has ruled out the possibility of using a five-man defence in the Premier League this season.

The Blues have won both top-flight fixtures since Sarri moved to a 4-3-3 formation, with the West Londoners having played 3-4-3 under predecessor Antonio Conte.

Chelsea struggled at the back during their 3-2 win over Arsenal last weekend, but Sarri does not intend on using more players in a defensive area of the pitch.

At a press conference, the Italian told reporters: "No. I'm not able to play with five defenders. Why? Because we are trying to defend by only looking at the ball.

"In this way with five defenders I lose metres on the pitch. I tried five years ago but it's not my way."

Chelsea are next in action when they face Newcastle United at St James' Park on Sunday afternoon.