Graham Potter gives thoughts on Chelsea progress
Chelsea manager Graham Potter appears satisfied with the progress being made at Stamford Bridge, describing this week’s Carabao Cup performance against Manchester City as a ‘step forward’ despite losing the game and being knocked out of the competition.
City were ultimately quite comfortable in their 2-0 win, but Chelsea did force goalkeeper Stefan Ortega into three big saves throughout the game.
“Obviously we are disappointed with the result but in terms of how we played, we created some good chances and there was a better structure and a better performance level,” Potter said.
“The team looked closer to what we want it to look like. The boys had great courage and they tried against a top team. Their keeper got the man of the match I think, which tells a bit of the story. But overall I think it was a step forward for us.”
Potter was hired as a replacement for Thomas Tuchel in early September, giving him around two months in the job up to now to make his mark on the squad.
Potter went nine games without defeat upon taking charge, tasting his first loss against former club Brighton on regrettable return to the Amex Stadium.
Chelsea did win four successive Champions League games to top their group and secure a more favourable draw for the last 16 in the spring, although it is worth noting that they have actually lost all of their last three domestic games against Brighton, Arsenal and Manchester City.
The team’s final game before the World Cup break begin is another tough game away against a high flying Newcastle side that has taken 19 points from the last 21 on offer in the Premier League.