Manchester City's interim manager Brian Kidd admits Chelsea haven’t reached the consistency of seasons past.
He was also pleased to hear supporters show their appreciation for former boss Roberto Mancini during the club's 3-2 defeat to Norwich in the last game of the season, especially under the trying circumstances of the past few weeks.
“It's been an emotional week with the events at the club,” said Kidd after their loss to Norwich.
“Full credit to the lads, they've got stuck in and given their best and you can't ask for any more.
“I understand the cheers for the boss, he would have been disappointed if there wasn't for what he did here.”
Kidd will remain in charge for next week's tour of the United States, which will see them play friendlies against Chelsea in St Louis and New York.
“I've been blessed and been grateful for what football has given me. I was asked to take charge for two games and America, which has been tough with the boss going,” added Kidd.
“The club make the decisions and you abide by it. I'm a big boy.
“We have fallen short of the standards we set last season, but it hasn't been for a lack of effort.
“You defend as a team and attack as a team, so you have to look collectively, but we haven't reached that consistency.”