Kurt Zouma believes that Chelsea have struggled to prepare themselves for the pressure of being Premier League champions.
The Blues are currently 13th in the Premier League after just one win in their opening four games, and yesterday lost at home to Crystal Palace.
That form, according to Zouma, comes as a result of the reputation forced upon the team following a triumphant season last term.
"We have to improve everything. Mentally we have to improve," Zouma told Chelsea TV.
"The season after we are champions, it's really difficult to prepare ourselves. To improve is more difficult, but we have to improve ourselves and keep going, keep working."
Chelsea's next game takes place after the international break when they face Everton at Goodison Park.
