Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo's pre-season plans might not be living up to his expectations but the frustrated Italian said once all his players return to club duties performances will improve.
The European Champions have lost their past three pre-season friendlies, including a shock 3-1 defeat by English Championship side Brighton on Saturday. London Olympic commitments for striker Daniel Sturridge, midfielder Juan Mata and new Brazilian signing Oscar have given Di Matteo little time to mould his squad for the upcoming season.
The Italian was also been forced to wait for those who took part in Euro 2012 to return from extended holidays including England defenders John Terry and Ashley Cole.
But their were no excuses for Chelsea as they were comprehensively beaten by Brighton with Fernando Torres and Belgian playmaker Eden Hazard both playing in a near full-strength side.
"We haven't had the whole team together yet," Di Matteo told the club's website (www.chelseafc.com).
"Some players have only been back nine days, some 16, some 21 and some are not back at all, but when they are back we can all work together. "I was expecting more from my team in terms of urgency and movement. I was looking for a better performance than the one we gave today (Saturday).
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