Callum McFarlane, Chelsea's interim coach, appeared in a press statement after qualifying for the FA Cup final following a 1-0 victory over Leeds United at Wembley Stadium.

The coach said in his speech: "Relief... is the most suitable word. We were confident before the match. We performed well over three days, but results are unpredictable. We wanted to change the course of the game; our level wasn't good."

He added, "I have previously taken responsibility for the team for a week, so I was aware of what awaited me. It is easier this time because I have a good relationship with the players, having worked with them for three or four months. I was part of the coaching staff, so I was familiar with their psychological needs. It has been an intense period."

He added: "We wanted to be completely clear about how we organized our ranks and played against Leeds. We knew they would think we were in a weak position. We wanted to give Robert [Sanchez] the option of playing directly because we knew we were in a fragile state. We started to take control of the match."

Regarding Enzo Fernandez: "What is most impressive about him is his fighting spirit. It's not necessary to have a perfect game plan in those moments; he will run and compete, and that is often the decisive factor."

He continued about the return of Romeo Lavia: "He has been coming back gradually. I've known Romeo for a long time. I worked with him at Manchester City. I know his level and talent. I think he and Moises Caicedo have been fantastic."

Regarding Leeds: "The more they pressed hard, the more we had an offensive option, and his skill in handling counter-attacks and quick movement is extremely important. Liam Delap performed well with us, and it's good to have two players we can rely on."

He concluded about facing City in the FA Cup final: "You can make a plan, but they are an exceptional team at the peak of their form. It will be a very tough match. It seems we are raising our level of performance, as we saw against Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup. It's more about character."