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Graham Potter sends message to Chelsea squad after Thomas Tuchel dismissal

Graham Potter sends message to Chelsea squad after Thomas Tuchel dismissal

Graham Potter is ready to level the playing field.

Graham Potter has given the Chelsea squad a clean slate following Thomas Tuchel’s departure last month. 

The 47-year-old replaced Tuchel after the club’s owners decided for a change in head coach to lead Chelsea in their new era.

Many players grew frustrated with their playing time and role under Tuchel, but a change in coach has given fresh and renewed optimism over their chances of a regular place in the side. 

Potter has already selected his first XI following their 1-1 draw against RB Salzburg, but will choose his first Premier League team when they face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park

Chelsea manager Graham Potter (centre), with assistant managers Anthony Barry (left) and Billy Reid during a training session at Cobham Training Centre. (Alamy)
Chelsea manager Graham Potter (centre), with assistant managers Anthony Barry (left) and Billy Reid during a training session at Cobham Training Centre. (Alamy)

The likes of Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech will be keen for a new chance to prove themselves after falling out favour under Tuchel. 

But Potter will let the players do the talking on the training pitches at Cobham before deciding on his team. 

"I'm not going to judge anybody on what's happened in the past,” Potter said

“I make my own mind up. Football hopefully decides. That's the best way to be as a coach I think."

Pulisic, 24, is ready to prove himself to Potter, admitting on USMNT international duty: "I'm feeling good going back, honestly. I have a fresh start now, and I'm excited to play for the new manager.

"So really just looking forward to it.

"I just have to prove myself, as everyone does, and as I've done before."

Graham Potter and Christian Pulisic. (Alamy)
Graham Potter and Christian Pulisic. (Alamy)

READ MORE: Graham Potter relishing ‘crazy’ Chelsea fixture schedule ahead of World Cup

Potter has told the youngsters that they also have a chance to make the team, insisting ‘age is no barrier’ during his thoughts and deliberations over personnel and tactics. 

The 47-year-old continued: “All players hope they get an opportunity, that’s normal. They put themselves in there in training, games, earn the right to play. 

“In a club like ours the competition is huge. If the quality is there, age should be no barrier.”

READ MORE: "I’ve got the capability to achieve here" - Graham Potter sends defiant Chelsea message after Brighton switch

Featured Image Credit: Alamy

Topics: Graham Potter, Chelsea, Football, Thomas Tuchel