The Community Shield final is often seen as the game that signals the start of a new season is coming, where last seasons Premier League champions take on the FA Cup champions.  

Whilst some may not take the game seriously and class it as a friendly, for everyone involved and the fans of those respective clubs winning the first trophy of the season is certainly important.

These were sentiments echoed by Chelsea defender Gary Cahill, who spoke out after the club's 1-0 loss to Arsenal in the match on Sunday. 

Despite being naturally disappointed by the loss, Cahill did find positives.

Positive Thoughts 

A first half strike from man of the match, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was enough to seal Arsenal a 1-0 victory on the day and claim the Shield for a second year in a row, but England defender Cahill isn't looking back at the game too negatively.  

He told the club website, "Let's be fair, the game's been won on a piece of individual play... chance-wise we had the majority of the play." With Chelsea having 57% of possession throughout the game, they certainly did have plenty of opportunities, especially in the second half.  

Jose Mourinho's side improved as the game progressed, with a strong second half showing which Cahill was happy with, adding "In the second half we felt we were on top and they were sat back." Chelsea's best chance of the game fell to Eden Hazard who managed to get a clear chance, only managing to smash the ball over the bar. 

An old friend becomes a new foe

The Wembley fixture saw Chelsea legend Petr Cech make his professional debut for the Gunners against his former club.  

It was a strange sight for Chelsea fans to see him in an opposition shirt, and it was even stranger for Cahill who has been used to playing in front of him since he joined the club, as he admitted "He was a part of the fixtures and fittings at Chelsea so it's strange that he's now left." 

The signing of Cech undoubtedly makes Arsenal a stronger outfit, and something that Cahill was quick to recognise that he thinks "they'll be one of many pushing at the top."

Looking Ahead

This was the first time Chelsea had failed to score a goal at the new Wembley and also saw Arsene Wenger's first ever victory over a Chelsea side managed by Jose Mourinho.  

Cahill didn't appear to be too concerned over the defeat, instead has focused his mind-set on Chelsea's final pre-season fixture against Fiorentina, explaining that "We're confident, we have a good squad and another game on Wednesday." 

Wednesday will be Chelsea's last chance to prepare ahead of the new season and Cahill is ready for the challenge of defending the title, "People talk and talk but the bottom line is when the season starts.. We'll be strong."