Chelsea vs Manchester United: Cesar Azpilicueta sends message to teammates ahead of nine days that will decide 'whole season'

Monday's 2-0 loss to Manchester United in the FA Cup featured chanting against Sarri, whose position is under scrutiny following a run of poor results

Cesar Azpilicueta wants to bring joy to the Chelsea supporters whose frustration with head coach Maurizio Sarri is growing by the game.

Monday's 2-0 loss to Manchester United in the FA Cup featured chanting against Sarri, whose position is under scrutiny following a series of embarrassing results.

There is no shame in losing to United, but the supporters voiced frustrations over Sarri's stubborn refusal to compromise on his possession-based style and 4-3-3 formation.

There is no time to dwell on the loss, however, with Malmo visiting in Thursday's Europa League last-32 second leg before Sunday's Carabao Cup final with Manchester City.

Chelsea then face Tottenham on February 27 in their first Premier League game since the humiliating 6-0 loss at City on February 10.

"Hopefully we can have a good nine days. It's the whole season," Azpilicueta told Chelsea TV on Monday evening.

"Now in three days we will be back at the Bridge against Malmo, to finish the job we started last Thursday, to get through to the next round.

"Then we have two massive games. We know that a trophy in the middle is everything, to bring the fans back to Wembley with the spirit to get the cup.

"Hopefully we can give a bit of happiness to them, to enjoy a bit of joy. Then we know Tottenham at home is something special."

Chelsea had numerous problems against United, but Azpilicueta highlighted the lack of incision in the final third, something which has been a regular problem for Sarri's side.

The captain said: "It has been a tough night. We didn't put Manchester in difficulties even at 2-0 down.

"We were not very good in the final metres, so we paid (for) that. And at the end we couldn't score."