After Chelsea’s defeat to Sheffield United, who are currently in last place, Noni Madueke of Chelsea lamented their “Achilles heel” and said there was silence in the Blues’ dressing room at full time.

Mauricio Pochettino’s team came to Bramall Lane as the overwhelming favorites, despite their own troubles this season. The Blades were almost a given to be demoted back to the Championship in the upcoming weeks. But in the ninetieth minute, Oli McBurnie of Sheffield United equalized, holding Chelsea to a 2-2 draw.

Pochettino was obviously incensed by the way his team gave up the advantage. Following the match, the Argentine criticised his team’s lack of maturity and even hinted that it would take him five years to resolve every issue at Stamford Bridge.

Ever since, Madueke has provided some insight into the players’ reactions to the game following the of the full-time whistle. From a Chelsea standpoint, what the 22-year-old told BBC Sport about the initial response in the locker room is depressing.

“To be honest, it was quiet in the dressing room,” admitted Madueke. “We ought to have won the game, of course. Sometimes, we lose points by holding them in the palm of our hands.

“There are still games to play, so we need to stay united, and I think we can finish where we want to.” There are undoubtedly certain advantages, but we haven’t been able to perform effectively in that area thus far. This is our weak point, the game that follows a stellar performance.”

Given that Cole Palmer, Chelsea’s player of the year, was taken off the field in the 74th minute, there were concerns that he may have suffered an ιnjury. Pochettino has since provided an update regarding the England international, though.

“No, no, no. I believe he was worn out,” the Blues manager continued. “I sensed that he was worn out. Another number 10 who can play there and perform well is Carney [Chukwuemeka].

“We must keep him safe. He was a little more exhausted than usual after taking a knock against Manchester United. After he scored the second goal, we sought to shield him in an effort to prevent a repeat issue.”

Palmer has been Chelsea’s lone bright spot during a dismal season in which they are mired in ninth place. In terms of total points, the Blues are closer to the relegation zone than they are to the top three.