Paul Tierney gate-crashes Chelsea's pre-match team huddle in most bizarre moment of the season
Chelsea's pre-match team huddle against Newcastle United was gate-crashed by an unexpected guest.
On Saturday evening, Chelsea welcomed Newcastle to Stamford Bridge in a mouth-watering Premier League clash.
Both teams were left disappointed in their midweek Champions League matches, Chelsea were thrashed 5-2 by Paris Saint Germain at the Parc de Princes.
Meanwhile, Eddie Howe's men conceded a late penalty and were held to a 1-1 draw by La Liga giants Barcelona.
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Ahead of kick-off on Saturday evening, Chelsea decided to continue their recent trend of doing a team huddle at the centre circle.
However, as they gathered to do a final team talk, referee Paul Tierney was in the way.
As the referee refused to move, the Chelsea players also chose not to go elsewhere.
What resulted was the bizarre scene of Tierney being stood right in the middle of the Chelsea huddle.
— Tekkers Foot (@tekkersfoot) March 14, 2026
When asked if the idea of gathering in a huddle before each half was his idea, manager Liam Rosenior said: "No, it wasn't.
"The idea came from the players, and I really like it because they're showing unity and togetherness and spirit, and I think you need that."
He added: "efore anything — before you start talking about tactics or systems — you need a group of players willing to run and fight for each other. And in my time, I have to say there hasn't been one game where they haven't given everything or where I was disappointed with their application, and that bodes well.
"They're a good group, they're a tight group, they enjoy each other's company, and that's half the battle."
Chelsea players angered Villa Park supporters during their 4-1 win over Unai Emery's men earlier in the month.
Against Newcastle, Rosenior's men made a strong start, with Cole Palmer getting an early opportunity but failed to convert.
Anthony Gordon then stunned Stamford Birdge by putting the Magpies ahead in the 19th minute.
Topics: Chelsea, Newcastle United, Football
Marcus Chan