Florent Malouda does not believe Chelsea are in a period of transition and is confident they will soon revive their flagging fortunes.
Chelsea man demands winning mentality
Florent Malouda does not believe Chelsea are in a period of transition and is confident they will soon revive their flagging fortunes.
The Blues have endured a difficult first half to the season following Andre Villas-Boas' appointment as manager last summer and currently occupy fourth place in the Premier League standings, 11 points adrift of leaders Manchester City.
Adjusting to life under Villas-Boas has been cited as a cause, but Malouda feels performances have just not been good enough.
"I don't like this expression of transition," he said. "When you play for Chelsea there is no transition because everyone expects the best from the squad we've got. There is a lot of talent and ambition.
"When you sign for the club, it doesn't matter who the players or manager are, all you expect is to win trophies. There is a mentality here.
"I think that's what the fans expect from us as well. We should not look at all the changes as an excuse, we must contend to win trophies year after year.
"The newer players have settled very well in the team. Everyone is focused on the club objectives and are sad when we don't have the results we expect.
"We're always trying to turn things around and we know how fast things can change.
"We know when we don't have results, doubts are coming from the outside so we have to stay strong as a squad to be able to compete for trophies. We have to go for it."
Fight for place
Malouda was part of the Chelsea side that defeated Portsmouth 4-0 in the third round of the FA Cup on Sunday.
The scoreline flattered the Blues after a late flurry of goals, with Ramires scoring a brace in the final 10 minutes and Frank Lampard firing home in stoppage time.
Juan Mata netted the opener after connecting with a cross from Malouda, who hopes similar performances can help him secure regular first-team football.
"I will never be happy to be on the bench," he said. "It is a competition, but I know what I can do when I am at my best level.
"I have helped the team win trophies and that is what I'm looking for. I will never be happy to play a few minutes sometimes.
"Am I ready to fight for my place? Of course. That's my character. The manager knows that.
"When you look at the number of games I have played for the club and my former clubs, I have always been in the starting XI.
"This season was a bit different for me but I am looking forward to changing that."
