Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic has conceded that his side have not reacted well to winning the Premier League last season.
The Blues have endured a miserable start to their campaign by taking just 11 points from their opening 11 matches, losing six of the games.
Chelsea's poor form has put huge pressure on manager Jose Mourinho, but Ivanovic is hopeful that his side will get back to their best soon enough.
"Everyone expects us to be on top but we didn't start well," Ivanovic told Sky Sports News.
"There is always extra pressure when you are champions, and the whole team didn't react well after winning the trophy.
"In the Premier League every team is competitive and can win even against the top teams. It is why it is important to go step by step, and I hope we will be back in a good position."
Chelsea are 15th in the Premier League ahead of their clash against Stoke City later today.
Simon Sinclair
