Former Chelsea midfielder Gus Poyet has questioned the team's aggression under Xabi Alonso, warning that Leeds United could exploit the same weaknesses exposed by Sunderland.
Chelsea suffered a 1-0 defeat at the Stadium of Light, where Enzo Le Fée's penalty secured victory for the hosts.
Speaking to Daily Mail Sport, Poyet argued that Chelsea must match opponents physically rather than rely entirely on their playing style.
Poyet criticises Chelsea's approach against Sunderland
"Sunderland went to the game with that old-fashioned mentality," Poyet said.
"Pressure from the fans, noise, tackling, (an) 'I'm gonna run over you' (attitude)."
He believes Sunderland showed greater determination despite Chelsea's attempts to control possession.
"Chelsea went on to try to play. There was quite a big difference in that aggression," he explained.
"We see teams that are looking so much for an identity that they forget the process to win games."
Chelsea's defeat was their fourth in eight Premier League matches, leaving Alonso facing questions about his side's consistency.
Poyet believes those problems could resurface against Leeds.
Leeds present another physical test for Chelsea
Daniel Farke's side have recorded more successful duels than any other Premier League team this season, underlining their physical approach.
"Leeds will be saying, 'Let's go'," Poyet said.
"Leeds are very solid, and very aggressive, so it can be that kind of game."
The former Sunderland manager also questioned Chelsea's collective mentality.
"More and more, through the years, the difference between the teams is mental," he explained.
"Right now, Leeds, as a team, are a little ahead mentally."
Poyet urged Alonso's players to use their Sunderland experience as preparation for another demanding contest.
"Use this game against Sunderland when you play against Leeds," he said.
"You cannot say, 'We didn't expect it'. Expect it! It's going to be similar."
Chelsea host Leeds at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, 21 November, looking to respond after their latest setback.
For Poyet, matching Leeds' intensity will be essential if Chelsea are to avoid another disappointing result.
Key Points
- Poyet believes Chelsea lacked aggression during their 1-0 defeat at Sunderland.
- He warned that Leeds could present a similar physical challenge at Stamford Bridge.
- The former Chelsea midfielder urged Alonso's players to learn from their latest defeat.
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