John Terry has insisted that Chelsea's defensive performances this season have not been deserving of the criticism that they have received.

Last night's 0-0 draw with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium marked only the second occasion that the Blues had kept a clean sheet in 12 outings.

However, captain Terry has pointed out that his side have shipped 18 goals so far - only two teams have conceded fewer.

"A lot of people have been speculating about us conceding too many, but we're third in the league in terms of conceding," the 33-year-old is quoted as saying by the London Evening Standard. "There have been a few games where we have let in more than we're used to, but overall we have been very solid."

On Boxing Day Chelsea will play host to Swansea City at Stamford Bridge.