Graham Potter praises team after Nervy win against Leeds

Chelsea Manager Graham Potter Sees Nervy Win Over Leeds as Foundation to Build Upon

Chelsea Manager Graham Potter expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance in their recent match against Leeds United, calling it a “massive” victory that provides a solid foundation to build upon.

The Blues secured a nervy 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge, thanks to Wesley Fofana’s second-half header, which broke the team’s dry spell of over 400 minutes without a goal. The win comes as a slight relief for Potter, who has been under increasing pressure following a string of poor results, with only one win in 11 matches.

Despite the victory, Chelsea had some nervous moments, particularly towards the end of the game, where they struggled to maintain their lead. Leeds could have levelled the scores, but goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga made a vital save with a lucky deflection off Kalidou Koulibaly, denying Georgino Rutter a goal.

In a post-match interview, Potter praised his team’s character, saying, “We were a team who had something to lose, so it was great character from the players. They cared and showed togetherness in the team. It gives us something to build on.”

Potter acknowledged that the team’s recent run of poor form had put pressure on the players, but he was delighted with their effort and commitment to securing the three points. “People care. Players want to win, and supporters want us to do well. When you consider the run we’re on, it’s not surprising there were nerves. The players fought for the win, and it allows us to keep moving forward.”

Chelsea now faces Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, looking to reverse a 1-0 deficit at home. The team will need to build on their recent win and show their character and togetherness to progress in the competition.