Manager Jose Mourinho said injuries to strikers Diego Costa and Loic Remy forced Chelsea to change their approach in the 1-0 derby win against QPR.
Cesc Fabregas scored fine late winner at Loftus Road after a poor kick by keeper Rob Green gifted possession to Eden Hazard, but the goal was out of context in a game lacking quality, with Chelsea’s goal their only shot on target.
Didier Drogba played up front as Costa is sidelined with a hamstring problem and Remy suffered a knock in training in the build up to the game.
Mourinho said: “We played with a striker who is the best one as a target man, no doubt.
“But Remy and Costa are more dangerous attacking spaces, making runs in behind defenders, so we had to adapt our game in relation to that.”
Mourinho does expect former QPR striker Remy to return in time to feature for the Premier League leaders against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge next Saturday.
“He should play the next game or be on the bench,” Mourinho confirmed. “I think he will be available.”
Mourinho was delighted with his side’s mental strength and approach against their west London rivals.
“It was difficult game,” said Mourinho, whose side are seven points clear of second-placed Arsenal with seven matches to play and a game in hand on the Gunners. “We controlled them very well and kept them far from the box.
“But they closed down very well and were organised defensively and gave us a difficult match in terms of our creation.
“I am happy with my team because we kept good emotional control. We never lost balance and were not under pressure. We were always very stable and scored in a crucial moment. The three points is fantastic.”
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This post was last modified on 13/04/2015