Graham Potter's comments hint at change of number one at Chelsea as Kepa impresses in Mendy absence

Chelsea could be set for a new first choice goalkeeper as Kepa Arrizabalaga has impressed in Edouard Mendy's absence under Graham Potter.

Mendy has been sidelined with a knee injury sustained in Chelsea's win over West Ham United.

Since then, head coach Thomas Tuchel was dismissed and replaced by Potter.

The 47-year-old preferred a ball playing goalkeeper during his time with Brighton and Hove Albion, coaching Robert Sanchez into becoming a regular in the Spain national team.

Edouard Mendy was injured in the buildup to Maxwel Cornet's disallowed goal for West Ham. (Alamy)

The Spaniard took Kepa's place in the national squad, but ahead of the 2022 World Cup, Kepa has the chance to earn his way back into the fold.

Kepa was seen as the number two behind Mendy during Tuchel's tenure, with the German admitting that, despite several mistakes at the beginning of the season, Mendy would keep his place.

“He is just in this moment, and it feels like it's not so much his fault," the former Blues boss said on Mendy's poor form.

"I have the feeling because he tries everything, he is very calm and focused. We will keep on supporting him."

However, Kepa has played every minute since Potter's arrival and conceded twice in two matches.

Despite the inability to keep a clean sheet, Kepa was highly impressive against Crystal Palace.

The goalkeeper made some fantastic saves to deny the hosts and was key in distribution, being the basis of Chelsea's attacks with quick and accurate distribution.

This led to high praise from Potter, who could opt to keep Kepa as his first choice at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking after the match, he said: “I thought he did really well.

"He made a couple of big saves but also, his distribution in terms of his decision-making was really strong.

"You need players to step up and perform and Kepa did that today. So I am really happy for him.”

Kepa Arrizabalaga in action for Chelsea vs Crystal Palace. (Alamy)

Therefore, Kepa could keep his place once Mendy returns from injury.

Potter previously confirmed that he expects the Senegal international to return next week as Chelsea prepare to face AC Milan.

In a must win game, Potter has a huge call to make.

Does he stick with Kepa, who has performed well in a new system, or put Tuchel's former numbner one back in net?