Graham Potter insists he took the Chelsea job because he was ready for the challenge to perform under the pressure and expectation.
The 47-year-old claimed his first win in charge of Chelsea since taking the head coach vacancy last month following a late 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace.
Chelsea came from behind at Selhurst Park to complete a comeback in the 90th minute courtesy of a stunning strike from the edge of the area from Conor Gallagher, who found the top corner against his former side.
Advert
Potter got his craved win at the second time of asking after the opening game draw against RB Salzburg in the Champions League.
He had time to settle in during the international break to find his bearings at Cobham and to reflect on the opening week or so that he had spent with his new players and staff.
Advert
It all came together against Crystal Palace, although there are big improvements still needed as they look to get up to speed and to their best in the run up to the World Cup break.
It is a period which will see Chelsea play 12 more games across the Premier League, Champions League and Carabao Cup. There is no rest bite for the Blues and Potter knows the pressure is on to perform and get results.
However, it’s a challenge that doesn’t faze him. He knows the demands that are expected of him, a reason why he relished accepting the job at Stamford Bridge.
Following the 2-1 win in the capital, Potter said: “Pressure and expectation are increased because of Chelsea’s standing in the football hierarchy. That’s what it is. But that’s why I took the challenge and why I am here.
“Regardless of what you guys ask me and the narrative that comes from you, I tend to focus on the job I have, which is working with the players, helping them improve and helping them win.
Advert
“Thankfully, I’ve got off to a decent start but I know there is a long way ahead.”
Potter was pleased to claim all three points to kickstart his Chelsea tenure. He continued: “On a personal level, it's nice to get the first win under the belt.
Advert
"I’m really pleased for the players because the pattern has been starting well away from home and then conceding and not getting the three points or any points.
"So they could’ve felt sorry for themselves but they didn’t. They kept going and pushing in the game. It was a tight game, could’ve gone either way in fairness but we’ve edged it. That’s how difficult it is here at Crystal Palace.”
Topics: Graham Potter, Chelsea, Football
Matthew Debono