Chelsea were visibly frustrated with Jarred Gillett’s refereeing during their 1-0 defeat to Sunderland. The Blues felt several decisions went against them at the Stadium of Light on Sunday afternoon.

The two biggest incidents came inside the penalty area, with Brian Brobbey winning a spot-kick after going down under minimal contact from Levi Colwill. Meanwhile, Cole Palmer was denied a penalty after being wiped out by Luke O’Nien.

Gillett did not award a foul in real time, while VAR ruled the contact occurred outside the penalty area. Chelsea supporters are convinced the officials got it wrong, but what do former professionals Chris Sutton and Gary Bennett think?

Chris Sutton and Gary Bennett disagree over Cole Palmer penalty shout

Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton was surprised that Jarred Gillett failed to award a foul for the challenge on Cole Palmer, but agreed with VAR’s decision not to give a penalty. He believes Luke O’Nien made contact with the 24-year-old outside the penalty area.

“The truth is Chelsea have been second best – even though they should be hard done by on the Cole Palmer decision,” Sutton said on commentary for Sky Sports. “It’s not a penalty, as I think the initial contact is outside the box, but it is a foul. Jarred Gillett and VAR decided to play on.”

However, Sunderland legend Gary Bennett appeared to disagree, suggesting O’Nien was fortunate not to concede a penalty. He warned the Black Cats that the challenge could have given Chelsea the chance to take a 1-0 lead.

“Tell you what, Luke O’Nien is lucky,” Bennett told BBC Sport. “Sunderland have to take that on board. They need to be wary of that. It’s a warning.”

Chelsea were below their best for much of the match, but the two penalty incidents proved decisive talking points. The Blues will feel aggrieved that neither decision went their way, particularly given how differently the officials judged the challenges on Palmer and Brobbey.