The Blues slipped to fifth in the Premier League following the 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday, with the Portuguese boss concerned by the club's festive schedule
SOURCE: GOAL
In the wake of Saturday's surprise 3-1 loss to Aston Villa, Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas has claimed that Champions League qualification and a top four finish is now the club's realistic target.
Despite taking a first-half lead through Didier Drogba, the visitors quickly equalised through Stephen Ireland, before late strikes from Stiliyan Petrov and Darrent Bent secured a much-needed three points for Alex McLeish's side.
Villas-Boas was left to rue his team's inability to convert chances once again, while also acknowledging that the club's defensive performances need to improve.
“It was a similar game to Fulham,” said Villas-Boas to reporters after the game.
“The opponent gives us initiative and we have good chances at goal but we couldn’t get it in the back of the net.
“We pay heavily when the opponent makes most of their chances. We had our chances in the second half, we didn’t score them and that had an impact.
“The opponents were brave in defence and efficient in the way they created positions in counter attacks.
“They punished us in quick counter-attacks. Their third goal was like one against Arsenal. If there is one thing to correct it’s the way we build up through the back, it’s an easy thing to solve with players of this tactical ability.”
Despite the majority of the top-four contenders also stumbling over the festive period, the Portuguese coach now sees his side sat in fifth place in the Premier League, with Villas-Boas insisting Champions League qualification is now the club's primary target.
"Sixth position belonged to Liverpool in the past, Arsenal too,” he said.
“We are now below the top four but we have to wait and see, things can change in 48 hours.
“It’s disappointing because in December all of the teams have dropped points. We spoke about how December could be decisive in the running of league.
“What we regret is missing big opportunities to reduce the gap with the leaders. If it were a good month we would have been running for title. It’s a thin line.
“Our reality is a fourth place finish, but that’s not good enough. We will have to continue to pursue the best finish possible.”
The final whistle was greeted with boos and jeers at Stamford Bridge, and the former Porto boss has called for the fans backing, whilst also complaining about Chelsea's festive fixture schedule.
“I have utmost respect for festive build up, it is part of tradition. It is not fair for the calender to be spread in this way. It should be done for every single club.
“I know TV demands are high but for all of the players. They go through physical strain and integrity, which can undermine their career.
“Most of the clubs are playing within 48 hours, but not all of them. I think its unfair, it should be the same for everybody.
“We want to repay the fans their trust. They have been magnificent through this period. The fans have a right to show disappointment.
“They know they can make a difference and we need them with full belief. We will have to face our challenges in 2012 in a different way. There is no running away with excuses.”
