“He has got his ways” , “be careful” – Former Brighton star sends Graham Potter strong message to Chelsea players
Chelsea players have been warned by former Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Dale Stephens about their incoming manager Graham Potter. The English player argues that when necessary, Potter can be authoritative.
After firing Thomas Tuchel as manager, Chelsea hired Potter as their new head coach. The UEFA Champions League match between Dinamo Zagreb and the Blues on September 6—the German manager’s 100th game in charge—ended in a 1-0 loss for the Blues. In his time at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea had 60 victories, 24 ties, and 16 defeats.
Stephens was questioned about Potter’s ability to step up and make difficult choices when necessary. By way of Sussex Express, he stated:
“Well, he sold me. He is very much a modern manager. He has got his ways and his ways of playing. He is the right man for Chelsea and for the big jobs. When you see vacancies pop for Champions League clubs, he is always in the hat for the top jobs.”
He further spoke in praise of Potter’s managerial abilities:
“He is very level headed and gets his points across. He is authoritative but does it in a manner that suits him. He is level headed and calm, and good or bad news, he is honest. I think players appreciate that and I’m sure that is an aspect that is positive for him.”
“His principals will be the same. One thing he taught me is that when you prepare for a game on Saturday, you are working on the weaknesses of that team from Monday. It is the same philosophy.”
The Blues are currently sixth in the Premier League table and are set to face Liverpool next at Stamford Bridge on September 18.