Graham Potter’s first two months at Chelsea rated: 6.5/10

Handling the pressure

It is plain to see that Potter’s appearance has altered since joining the west Londoners. Thanks to what he pretty much described as an overly expensive haircut from a stylist for some of the lads. Along with sporting an all-black outfit for UCL outings, he does look the part. In fact, the Blues boss described his own ‘glow up’.

You could say that the Englishman’s assimilation seems the real deal. Indeed, he performs well at press conferences – despite typical Premier League boss ambiguity. Though I see some concern and potential introspection behind the veil. Occasionally he does seem slightly overawed by the situation of being the head coach of such a significant as well as globally supported club.

Worry is sometimes written all over Potter’s face, even though every manager looks panicked now and again. Maybe judging him during intensely fraught matches is unfair. And none of that matters if results are good. Furthermore, I am not suggesting that he is out of his depth, but rather that he must be afforded a decent spell to grow into the role.

Remember, Manchester City supremo Pep Guardiola once described his counterpart as “the best English manager right now”. PoL definitely consider it worth offering Potter the scope to improve and even create his CFC team.

The players certainly took to the new gaffer straight away, as outlined in this article. A personable nature, coupled with interest in how and where the athletes preferred to be deployed illuminated blossoming man management. Potter’s candid yet tactful appraisals were said to be appreciated.

Results and progress

Over most of September and October Chelsea’s results were very good. However, a drubbing at Brighton was a real letdown and wake-up call. In the Champions League Potter has established a solid Blues foundation; defeating AC Milan home and away with seeming ease were highlights.

Ironically, the chief on Fulham Road is often hailed for his flexibility and adaptive traits, but he won’t really budge from a three at the back formation. Nor will he use Marc Cucurella in his correct position. This is further confusing as the former has tried a four-man defence once or twice to some success at CFC.

Admirably, mental health was spoken of by the Blues boss, who has been personally affected. Refreshingly it related to his colleagues at other EPL outfits. Interestingly this topic was broached at a time when results deteriorated as if to say ‘look, we all go through ups and downs, so try to be understanding’. We all know Premier League gaffers are exceedingly well paid, still, nobody should put up with a torrent of abuse. That can and does cause problems for people, regardless of social status.