Graham Potter He admits Chelsea need to accept recent fan criticism and work hard to change opinions.
Away fans named former manager Thomas Tuchel in their FA Cup loss last month. Manchester City In response to Potter’s fiery record as Chelsea manager.
his side face Southampton He has just won twice in his last 13 games in all competitions on Saturday, causing murmurs of discontent among fans.
“I think as professionals we should accept that and work as hard as we can to change the mind. That’s the challenge for us, I’m not going to object to that,” Potter said.
“We can always do more and better. But you also have to look at the situation as it is, put it in context. But in terms of how the group works, that’s positive.”
Marc Cucurella Replaced in the starting 11 for Wednesday’s defeat Borussia Dortmund by Ben Chilwell. The Spanish player has found himself at the center of criticism in recent months.
Potter said: “Our results, where we stand on the chart, unfortunately someone will bear the brunt of the criticism. I think this is the model. It doesn’t matter whether it’s fair or not, the fans have the right to have their opinion, they have the right to speak their mind because without them there would be no football club.”
“Marc is a big kid, he’s an adult, he has kids, he knows the situation. We have to help him change his perspective.”
Potter remained confident he could find his feet after the left-back struggled to adapt since the £60m move from Brighton last summer that reportedly had interest from Manchester City.
“Chelsea wasn’t the only team looking to buy him in the summer,” he said. “The other team that wants to get him is pretty good, so he’s not a bad player. But I also understand the frustration right now.”
“He won’t be the first player at a new club to not feel the way he should during the first six months and that could affect your performance.”
Although Joao Felix, Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke signed on to bolster Chelsea’s attack in January, the Blues have only conceded two goals in their last five games.
“Could all the actors be more brutal and more clinical? Yes absolutely. But I think it’s a bit of a process,” Potter said.
Chelsea’s lack of goal threat has recently prompted questions about whether they should invest in a striker to replace the out-of-form Kai Havertz.
“I always think the best way is to make the team work better and better, and I think there are players who can score,” Potter said.
“But the idea that you could go to a store and buy nine that fit your investment profile – it’s not just transfer fees but salaries as well – it’s not easy.”