'No problem' - Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca defends Robert Sanchez after goalkeeper's latest howler against Wolves

Spanish shot-stopper Sanchez was responsible for Wolves restoring parity during a Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge that the home side ultimately won 3-1. Matt Doherty levelled for the visitors to west London on the stroke of half-time after seeing a corner delivery spilled into his path.

Sanchez’s flap at that set-piece represented the fourth mistake that he has made this season which has led to a goal. Such a record could be considered a source of concern for Chelsea, given the importance of having a reliable last line of defence, but Maresca has no bones to pick with his No.1.

The Italian tactician told Sky Sports when asked about Sanchez’s errors: “Fourth mistake leading to a goal? And how many times has he saved us? I think more than four. No problem. Mistakes happen to him, to the strikers, central defenders, no problem. Robert Sanchez is doing well. [Media attention] is part of our job when you make some mistakes. Robert has saved us many times, it happens, no problem.

“If I'm not wrong only four or five teams in the league have conceded less than us. So why [ask about] a defensive problem? I think the balance is quite good between offensive and defensive. Then you can concede a goal in any way. The first 40 minutes we were top. The performance was excellent and we dominated the game. We scored and created many more chances.”

Victory over Wolves has lifted Chelsea back into the Premier League’s top four – two points above defending champions Manchester City and rejuvenated Newcastle. The Blues are set to face City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.