Chelsea have had a dismal run of form over the last few games, having won only two of their last 14 games. Their most recent defeat was to Southampton at Stamford Bridge by a 1-0 scoreline. The Saints are rooted to the bottom of the table, and it was a game that the Blues were expected to win.
However, even though they had a better xG than Southampton, they were unable to find the back of the net. And as a result, they have remained in tenth place, continuing their winless performance under Graham Potter.
Why Chelsea haven’t sacked Graham Potter despite brutal criticism
The upper management is convinced that the former Brighton manager is the right man for the job long-term. This comes even though he hasn’t managed any other Big Six team in the past, but was able to guide the Seagulls into their best ever position in the table.
It took him time to get things going at the Amex Stadium, and the arrival of so many new starters during the January transfer window hasn’t helped his case either. Potter has resorted to simpler tactics, but is still searching for his strongest line-up.
Moreover, constant injuries to some of the best players like Reece James and Ben Chilwell hasn’t helped his case either. And this has forced him to opt for other changes to the line-up, which haven’t made it any easier for the new players to settle in.
The Chelsea board is quite appreciative that Potter doesn’t throw any of his players under the bus in press conferences. Moreover, he isn’t animated on the touchline either when the team isn’t performing up to the mark. These conversations take place behind closed doors.
In addition, his training methods have impressed the higher ups at Chelsea as well. And they are convinced that it is only a matter of time before the results swing in their favour. Towards that end, they are prepared to wait until the start of next season until they make a decision as to whether Graham Potter will stay or go.
