Chelsea's Andre Villas-Boas shocked by criticism following 3-1 defeat to Manchester United

Posted Saturday, September 24, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas has admitted he was taken aback by the criticism he and his team received following its 3-1 defeat to Manchester United last week.

"I am surprised that people take the view to criticize us for being naive and stupid at Old Trafford," said the Portuguese manager to reporters. "What we did was defend the essence of British football and football well played."

Villas-Boas stated he was happy with the way his team approached and played the game and felt they outplayed the Red Devils for the majority of the game however he was disappointed by the overall outcome.

"I find it strange that people related to football don't know where to position themselves regarding what is best for football and what is best for fans, because fans are the most important part of our game," said Villas-Boas. "It was an entertaining game for the world. Pity we didn't come away with the three points but I think we were superior during the 90 minutes.

The first-year EPL boss was realistic about the result though, and understood that his side didn't get a result and that is what matters.

"In the end, it's the victory that counts," he added. "We missed the victory. We are five points behind the leader and we have to try to shorten the distance as we try to progress with a couple of wins."

The 33-year-old has also praised the ethic and style in which Swansea and boss Brendan Rodgers are going about their performances in the Premier League this season after gaining promotion. Chelsea plays Swansea this weekend.

"When you try to implement a philosophy like Brendan is trying to do, there is a dignity in the path that he chooses, because it's a difficult path for a team that needs points," Villas-Boas said. "He privileges good football and football well played and attacking football. When you try to do that at a club like Swansea, it's something that for me is more prestigious."