Branislav Ivanovic believes that all of Chelsea's players 'deserve' to be criticised for their performances this season.
The Blues were crowned champions in May but have endured a disastrous start to the current campaign and have won just five of their opening 17 games.
Such an alarming dip in form cost Jose Mourinho his job earlier in the week but the west London club returned to winning ways courtesy of a 3-1 victory over Sunderland this afternoon.
Ivanovic scored the opening goal in his side's latest win as new interim boss Guus Hiddink and owner Roman Abramovich watched on from the stands but the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge was unusual.
Supporters regularly chanted Mourinho's name while some players - including Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa - were booed by members of the home crowd
But Ivanovic is adamant that all of his teammates deserve to receive criticism for their collective poor form and has urged Chelsea to remain united as they attempt to climb the table.
"I think we all deserve to be criticised and we all have responsibility," the Serbian full-back told Sky Sports.
"Its all abut the players and how they are on the pitch. The players put Chelsea in this position and the only way to change this position is up to the players.
"I can understand the frustration of the fans. It's normal."
He continued: "I think we all know what Jose Mourinho means for this club and nobody can change or speak about that.
"For us it was a very emotional day, but I think we have the support of everyone in the club.
"This club does not deserve to be in the position where we are now.
Chelsea vs Sunderland - player ratings
"But the only way to change this is we have to win the games, we have to get the points and get out of this situation.
"This club is all of us and this club cannot be in the position it is now."
Chelsea entertain Watford on Boxing Day when the reigning champions will have the chance to record consecutive league victories for the first time this season.
