‘I know Liam Rosenior really well and this is what he gave Chelsea’s players during win vs Brentford’

Liam Rosenior Secures First Premier League Win as Chelsea Boss with 2-0 Victory Over Brentford

In Liam Rosenior's debut Premier League match as Chelsea manager, the Blues clinched a gritty 2-0 win against fifth-placed Brentford at Stamford Bridge on January 17, 2026. Despite a disjointed performance marred by illness and disrupted preparation, Rosenior praised his team's attitude, energy, and battling qualities for securing the three points.[1][2][4]

João Pedro opened the scoring in the 26th minute, pouncing on a ricochet off Enzo Fernández after Michael Kayode's clearance, firing a ferocious shot into the net. The second goal came late in the 76th minute when substitute Liam Delap won a penalty after Caoimhin Kelleher brought him down; Cole Palmer converted coolly from the spot.[1][2][4]

Brentford squandered several chances, including Kevin Schade's one-on-one denied brilliantly by Robert Sánchez early in the second half—a pivotal moment. Schade also missed a golden opportunity before halftime, squaring instead of shooting, while Alexander Garnacho blazed over from point-blank range.[1][2]

Rosenior highlighted the basics of football: "The attitude, energy levels, valuing the basics... willingness to battle, fight, block shots, make headers and tackles. That's why we got the clean sheet and the win."[1][3][4] He commended Palmer's tireless pressing despite limited training, Sánchez's resilience and distribution, and the squad's fight through illness and knocks. Tosin Adarabioyo was subbed as a hamstring precaution.[3][5]

Chelsea weren't fluid in possession but adapted with direct play to bypass Brentford's press, learning to grind out wins against a well-organized side strong on set-pieces and long throws. Rosenior: "You have to find a way to win... the lads did that."[1][4] This victory boosts Chelsea's top-six push, showcasing Rosenior's early impact in his third game overall.[2][6]

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