John Terry launched a scathing attack on his team-mates yesterday for being complacent, arrogant and lacking the stomach for a fight during Chelsea's 3-1 Champions League defeat away to Roma on Tuesday. The Chelsea captain conceded that his team have no chance of returning to the Italian capital for this season's final if they continue to produce such lacklustre performances as that which led to their second defeat in four games and heaviest in almost three years.

Chelsea were stunned by three Roma goals in the space of 24 minutes either side of half-time after previously conceding only four in 15 matches this season, with Terry claiming that the visiting team's poor attitude was to blame for the shock defeat by a side who had lost their previous five matches.

“It was a terrible night for us and we didn't get going,” Terry said. “We've been getting performances and results because we've been working hard for each other and we've been there for each other. We've been getting goals and destroying teams, but we went to Roma thinking we could do it individually - and you simply can't. We need to know that. Hopefully, what happened will prove to be the kick up the backside we need.

“We sort of strolled in, thinking we were better than them, when clearly we're not. What was disappointing was that we didn't fight. Even after we went one and then two down, we didn't show the fight and desire that's got us where we've been over the last few years.

“First and foremost, when you go to a place like Rome you need to fight and show more determination than them and win the game. If it comes down to quality, then nine times out of ten we're better than most sides. We have to start with the desire to win.”

Terry voiced similarly uncompromising sentiments in the dressing-room of the Olympic Stadium after the game, pointing out that Chelsea must improve dramatically if they are to return to Rome for the final on May 27. Chelsea's away record in Europe is becoming a cause for concern because they have not recorded a win on their travels since beating Rosenborg 4-0 almost a year ago.

“Harsh words were exchanged and we had it out in the dressing-room,” Terry said. “It's sometimes better if you don't speak your mind, but it's down to myself to pick the boys up again. It will take a couple of days because there's no doubt the dressing-room is low after that.

“We have the determination to come back to Rome, but if we're going to perform like that, we will get nowhere near the Champions League final. That's a simple fact. Reaching the final is the big target, and that's why we're in this competition, to come back in May. That's what we're all striving for, but based on Tuesday's performance, we've got no chance.”