Graham Potter’s first game in charge of Chelsea is set to take place on Wednesday against FC Salzburg in the Champions League.
The 47-year-old was appointed as Thomas Tuchel’s successor after the German was dismissed by the club’s new owners on Wednesday morning following their 1-0 Champions League defeat to Dinamo Zagreb in Croatia.
Potter was handed a five-year contract worth a total of £60 million after Chelsea paid Brighton in excess of £20 million for his and his backroom team’s services.
After Chelsea quickly moved to announce Potter, they did so with the intention of having him in the dugout to take charge of their Premier League clash against Fulham at Craven Cottage for Saturday’s early kick off.
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However, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday afternoon, the Premier League confirmed all games this weekend would be postponed as a mark of honour and respect to the 96-year-old.
“At a meeting this morning, Premier League clubs paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,” read a statement from the Premier League.
“To honour her extraordinary life and contribution to the nation, and as a mark of respect, this weekend’s Premier League match round will be postponed, including Monday evening’s game.”
It continued: "This is aligned with the approach that The FA and EFL will take with their competitions this weekend.
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"Further updates regarding Premier League fixtures during the period of mourning will be provided in due course."
With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Potter’s wait for his first game in charge of Chelsea could come in midweek in front of his own supporters at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea are due to play FC Salzburg in the Champions League in matchday two of Group E.
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UEFA have sent out the media schedule for the group matches next week, while The Sun also reports that European fixtures will go ahead and if any side were not to play, they would have to forfeit the points.
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That is something Chelsea simply cannot afford to do, especially after losing the opening game of their 2022/23 campaign.
Potter has five days - Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday - to prepare his new side for the game and adapt them to his vision.
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The 47-year-old is relishing the chance after being given the opportunity by Todd Boehly and Co, telling the official Chelsea website: "I am incredibly proud and excited to represent Chelsea FC, this fantastic football club.
"I am very excited to partner with Chelsea’s new ownership group and look forward to meeting and working with the exciting group of players and to develop a team and culture that our amazing fans can be proud of."
Matthew Debono