Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel felts his players were flat after the international break for their 4-1 defeat at home to Brentford.

The Bees ran out 4-1 winners at Stamford Bridge, with all five of the game's goals coming after the interval and the visitors fighting back from behind following Antonio Rudiger's incredible opener from distance.

Tuchel said, "It was a tough start, which is not the first time it's been like that after an international break, and it took us a while to find our rhythm and to find full control.

"We lacked energy and we didn't do the things that usually make us strong. We looked tired, physically and mentally tired. It's a big challenge to play after the international break but you have to get your results right as the favourite and being at home. We didn't do that well enough today.

"I'm aware that my expectations were not too high for this match. It's a challenge to play after an international break and as a favourite on top of it, to dictate the match and to break down a well-organised, physical team.

"We were in the lead, in charge and I felt us better and better so I did not see that coming."