Graham Potter ‘concerned’ as poor Chelsea results pile up, but thinks ‘quality and courage’ on show
Graham Potter admitted he was “concerned” amid Chelsea’s poor run, but happy with the “quality and courage” his side showed in their League Cup defeat.
Outside of the Champions League, Chelsea have left a lot to be desired of late. Indeed, of their last four games not in Europe before today, they had picked up just two points.
A trip to Manchester City was not likely to make things any easier.
Potter sprinkled players who have had limited opportunities this season among a more experienced core.
Youngster Lewis Hall was afforded his second start for the club and Denis Zakaria made just his second appearance since joining on loan from Juventus. Armando Broja also made just his second start for the club up front.
A closely-contested first-half saw the two sides go in to the break goalless. It was City who took the advantage early in the second-half, with Riyad Mahrez breaking the deadlock in the 53rd minute.
Julian Alvarez doubled the arrears just five minutes later.
Chelsea boss Potter attempted to get his side back into the game. Indeed, he used all five substitutes, including attacking talents Mason Mount and Raheem Sterling.
However, the Blues were unable to get anything from the game. They bowed out in the third round for the first time in more than 10 years, thanks to the 2-0 loss.
Potter ‘concerned’ amid poor run
Chelsea will not be too happy at the fact they have won just two of their last seven in all competitions. Potter admitted his concern due to that, but felt his side’s performance was a good one.
“I’m always concerned when we don’t get results. Our performances haven’t been what we wanted in the last couple of games. But today is what we wanted the team to look like. We looked like a good team,” he said via BBC Sport.
“A lot to like. We created some big chances and attacked well. We weren’t perfect, but did a lot right in the game. It was a pleasing performance, a step forward in how we want to play.
“I’m disappointed with the result but happy with the performance.”
Potter details sloppy elements
Potter also admitted there were a few areas of the game that could have been improved upon. However, he stressed his side played how he wanted them to for the most part.
“We had some big chances. You won’t get many bigger ones here. We had big courage to try to play out. The boys showed quality and courage. I liked a lot of what we did today,” he said.
“We could have done better for their goals. The wall could do better. It’s those fine details you can improve but performance-wise I’m really happy.”
The manager also hailed Hall, who he thought performed very well on just his second senior start.
“Lewis Hall did brilliantly. Fantastic performance. Great quality and effort. He took responsibility. Putting the ball in the net is the hardest thing and that’s all he didn’t do today,” Potter added.
READ MORE: Chelsea told what to do to snare Newcastle star with value skyrocketing, according to insider
