Chelsea coach Rosenior ruthless vs. Hull City to prove his credentials - ESPN

ESPN

by James Olley

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Liam Rosenior secured his place in managerial history with a ruthless display as Chelsea defeated Hull City 4-0 in the FA Cup fourth round. Rosenior, who began his career at Hull and previously coached there, showed no mercy to his former club, making eight changes and leading Chelsea to a comprehensive win despite their recent struggles. The game, played at the MKM Stadium, was a chance for Rosenior to prove his credentials, and he did so in style with a professional performance that showcased the quality of his squad. The match was marked by emotional moments, as Rosenior reflected on his connection to Hull. His grandmother, a lifelong Hull supporter, had passed away, but Rosenior jokingly suggested she "did the draw" to bring him back to the club where he began his career. While the home fans were left disappointed by the demolition of their team, they could take pride in Rosenior's achievements. The game also highlighted the progress Rosenior has made since taking charge of Chelsea, with a record of eight wins out of 11 matches demonstrating his ability to build a competitive side. Chelsea dominated from start to finish, with Pedro Neto scoring a hat-trick and Estêvão adding another goal. Despite missing several early chances, the Blues displayed clinical finishing in front of goal. Rosenior praised his players for their professionalism, emphasizing that their performance reflected the values he has instilled in the team. The victory was particularly significant for Rosenior, as it came against a Hull side pushing for promotion to the Premier League. The game also saw Rosenior introduce teenager Jesse Derry for his debut, showcasing the club's commitment to youth development. While Hull fought valiantly and even hit the post in stoppage time, Chelsea's clinical efficiency proved too much. The match was a statement of intent from Rosenior, proving that he is capable of leading Chelsea to success despite skepticism from some supporters. This result matters because it underscores Rosenior's growing legitimacy as a manager. Despite criticism from those who doubt his ability due to his connection to the ownership group, Rosenior has consistently delivered results, earning the respect of players and staff. The victory over Hull will further solidify his position and quieten critics, demonstrating that he is more than capable of leading Chelsea forward.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/13/2026