Thomas Tuchel has admitted he will accept Anthony Taylor refereeing Chelsea games again in the future despite statistics showing the Blues are on the end of unfavourable decisions.
More controversy involving Chelsea and Taylor took place last Sunday during the 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge against Tottenham Hotspur.
A decision not to send Cristian Romero off for a hair-pull on Marc Cucurella was made, backed by Mike Dean on VAR, was later confirmed to be an error by Dean in a column for the Daily Mail.
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It was a costly error as Spurs went on to score in the 96th minute from the corner to snatch a point in west London.
Tuchel was furious and got in a scuffle with Antonio Conte at full-time which saw Tuchel be handed a suspended one-game touchline ban and a £35,000 fine, which is subject to appeal and written reasons being provided.
Meanwhile, Conte was given just a £15,000 fine.
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The 48-year-old questioned the integrity of Taylor, saying Chelsea worry when he referees their games.
When asked if his players are worried when Taylor is appointed, the German replied: “Yeah, of course.”
It remains to be seen if Tuchel will be punished for his comments about Taylor, who will still referee Chelsea matches in the future.
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Responding to questions over Taylor’s performance, Tuchel said: "I was asked several times about it and this was my answer. I think it is more than just a feeling.
"There are some statistics that underline that we struggle to get the same results with him refereeing.
"Again, we never attacked or questioned his integrity or honour. It was about this game and I think it was in an acceptable way without being personal or falling out of line.
"Of course, I am passionate about this club and about my team and in moments when we fight and we play a game at the level that we played it. It kind of sucks me into the matches and I also get very passionate about it.
“I will accept it (if Taylor referees Chelsea games in the future) but I just said maybe it would be better. And I stick to my words, maybe it would be better, who knows?
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"I want to make it very clear I did not attack his integrity, I did not question it.
"I said very, very early that the two decisions were decisions for the VAR.
"But I was not happy with the way he whistles the game but ok. But this is what happens. This will go to the board (independent regulatory commission) and they will decide.”
Topics: Thomas Tuchel, Chelsea, Premier League, Football
Matthew Debono