Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has described himself as a "magician" for predicting that the Blues would struggle to match the feats of last season this time round.
The Italian led Chelsea to the Premier League title in his first campaign in charge but they currently sit nine points behind leaders Manchester City after eight games.
League defeats to City and Crystal Palace, as well as Wednesday's 3-3 draw with Roma in the Champions League, have increased scrutiny on the Blues' performances.
"I was a magician to anticipate it," Conte told Sky Sports News. "But, for sure, I'm a person who is not afraid to face the difficulties.
"Now we are in October and we have to think about improving the present.
"Don't find excuses. Tell always the truth. If you always tell the truth, you can't be afraid of anything."
Up next for Chelsea is a Premier League home game against Watford on Saturday.
