The billion-pound bottlejobs? Chelsea sporting directors speak out in first major interview since Gary Neville jibe after Carabao Cup final

Commentating on Sky Sports, the former Manchester United defender took aim at the Blues' transfer strategy after they failed to beat an almost second-string Liverpool side in the Carabao Cup final in February despite the club’s hefty spend on transfers. Mauricio Pochettino, then Chelsea head coach, was quick to respond to Neville's pointed comments and argued that such criticism was unfair and came at a time when the club were navigating a transitional period under new ownership.

Stewart, in an interview with The Telegraph, weighed in on the sharp criticism that the club have faced and emphasised the importance of staying focused on their long-term goals.

"We can’t get too caught up in some of that noise of what’s going on outside, otherwise you’d lose a lot of time and energy to that," he said. "We know internally that we’ve been working towards a direction with a long-term plan."

Winstanley echoed Stewart’s sentiments, pointing out that the club have faith in the path they are following and all stakeholders including the owners remain committed to building a successful and sustainable future for the club.

"We’ve had total belief from the start," he said. "We discussed this long and hard, right at the beginning, on the right strategy and the journey we need to be on. So we’re under no illusions that success is not on a straight line. There’s going to be hurdles to overcome. But we’ve had total belief in it, ownership, the staff, the club and the manager all have total belief in it. So it’s important to keep going on that journey and we’re excited about what the future holds."

Chelsea are currently preparing for their upcoming Premier League clash against Liverpool on October 20. They are showing gradual signs of recovery under Enzo Maresca and are fourth in the standings with 14 points from seven matches. However, their credentials will be tested to the limits by Arne Slot's men at Anfield.