'Not fair' - Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino fires back at Gary Neville's scathing 'billion pound bottle jobs' criticism after Carabao Cup final defeat to Liverpool

Pochettino explained that he is respectful of Neville and his opinions, but felt the Sky Sports commentator had gone too far in assessment of the Blues. During the game, Neville criticised Chelsea for bowing to the Liverpool pressure stating: "It’s Klopp’s kids against the billion pound bottle jobs." Pochettino was far from happy with the assessment.

Responding to Neville, Pochettino said: “I didn’t hear what he said but if you compare the age of the two groups, I think it’s similar. I have a good relationship with Gary [Neville]. I can respect his opinion.

"We made a few changes, like [Conor] Gallagher and [Ben] Chilwell in extra-time. But it’s true, we didn’t keep the energy how we finished the second-half.

"For sure I feel proud. They made a big effort. We have a young team, and nothing to compare with Liverpool because they finished with young players on the pitch.

"It’s not fair to talk in this way, if he said that. We’re going to keep being strong and believing in this project."

While under Todd Boehly's ownership Chelsea's transfer activity has exceeded the £1 billion ($1.3 billion) mark, they have largely invested in young players. Of course, this does not excuse how poor Chelsea have been under the American's stewardship, but barring a small number of exceptions, Pochettino possesses an inexperienced squad at the top level. Perhaps this explains his frustration.

Pochettino and Chelsea will have to respond to adding yet another disappointment to the collection under Boehly. They face a tricky tie in the FA Cup next weekend against Leeds United as they look to return some winning fervour to Stamford Bridge.