Potter to focus on ‘a few positives’ following the loss to City

Graham Potter was quite positive after Chelsea’s last night defeat against Manchester City in which the Blues were soundly beaten 2-0. The English tactician called the loss a “step forward”.

Potter who replaced Tuchel back in September started his

career strongly but has been out of luck in the past 7 games as the Blues have won only 2 of those matches. A combination of injuries and Potter trying to fid his best set up has led to Chelsea looking like a toothless team against stronger opponents.

Potter’s line up for the last night clash against

consisted of 7 changes from the team that lost to Arsenal 1-0 last weekend but the younger and more inexperienced Chelsea players who were backed by fringe squad players were not strong enough to stand up to City. Potter was excited by his team nonetheless.

"I thought there were quite a few positives," Potter told reporters. "Obviously, we’re disappointed with the result but in terms of how we played, we created some good chances, there was a better structure and performance level.

"The team looked closer to what we want it to look like [compared to Arsenal]. The boys had great courage and they tried against a top team.

"Their goalkeeper got man of the match and I think that tells a little bit of the story. But overall, I think it was a step forward for us."

Chelsea will be Eddie’ Howe’s on-from Newcastle United at St. James Park on Saturday and will need to get a result before PL is put on hold for the World Cup.

"We're concerned when we don’t get the results we want," Potter said. "Our performances have not been what we want either in the last couple of games. Tonight was a big step in terms of how we want to play, and we can get confidence from that.

"It’s a big game at Newcastle, 5.30 on the TV, it'll be a fantastic atmosphere. They’re doing really well, so it’ll be a tough game, but we have to try and go there and get the three points."

Perhaps the standout performance from the Chelsea’s side came from the 18-year-old Lewis Hall after the midfielder got his second start for Chelsea and Potter couldn’t be more proud of the player.

"I really enjoyed his performance," Potter said. "He took responsibility, took the ball in tight areas, attacked the box, and could’ve scored a couple of goals on another day.

"It was a really nice performance, a mature performance I thought. He is a quiet lad but goes about his work. I've been really impressed with him."

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