Joao Pedro explains what was said at half-time against Newcastle that led to Chelsea’s goal

The mood inside the Chelsea dressing room at half-time couldn’t have been good.

Newcastle had run them ragged, and being only two goals down probably flattered them. Still, whatever was said during the break worked, as Chelsea came out looking far more organised and focused.

It wasn’t just a change in energy, though. There was a specific adjustment made between Pedro and Robert Sanchez that paid off directly.

Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, Pedro explained: “I told him [Robert Sanchez] at half-time to play this ball to me. I controlled the ball in front, and I scored a brilliant goal.”

It’s always interesting to hear how players think about these moments before they happen.

A draw at St James’ Park isn’t a disaster by any means — it’s just a shame Chelsea didn’t start playing until they were already two goals behind.

Ally McCoist sums up the Chelsea vs Newcastle draw perfectly

Chelsea fans will have been frustrated with how their side started, but the game developed into a very entertaining contest.

Ally McCoist summed it up well after the match: “Might just be the best game I’ve seen this season. Newcastle in the first half, I can’t tell you how good they were.

“You have to give Chelsea credit [for the comeback]. I’m buzzing with the game of football we’ve watched.”

While you wouldn’t want that kind of chaotic match every week, Chelsea did well to recover from what could have easily been a disappointing defeat, even if not everyone played their part in it.