Chelsea: Graham Potter may not have support after ‘one or two whispers’

Chloe Chadwick 21 February 2023, 18:40 2 minutes read

Graham-Potter-after-the-game-for-Chelsea

Stamford Bridge, London, Britain - February 18, 2023. Chelsea manager Graham Potter after the match.

Chelsea manager Graham Potter may not have the backing of Todd Boehly after ‘one or two whispers’, according to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook.

The Lowdown: Uncertain future

The Premier League manager was appointed at Stamford Bridge in September 2022 but has had an underwhelming, impact having won just nine of his 23 league matches in charge.

The Blues boss has received many calls for the sack from unhappy fans, with former managers Jose Mourinho and Thomas Tuchel having both been linked with a return.

Despite the poor run of form, several outlets have claimed that the 47-year-old still has the support of Boehly, though an update has now emerged contrary to those reports.

The Latest: Crook’s comments

Speaking to talkSPORT, Crook delivered a significant update on Potter’s future at Chelsea. Quoted by their official website, he said:

“I was there on Saturday and it turned quite toxic with boos at half-time and full-time. Chelsea fans around the press box were calling for Graham Potter’s head.

“The briefings coming out of Stamford Bridge on Sunday were saying that Graham Potter retains the backing of the board and that it is a long-term project.

“I’m just hearing one or two whispers to the contrary that Todd Boehly may have a different opinion to that.

“They have a huge game against Borussia Dortmund next week, basically their season could come down to that.”

Potter in or Potter out?

Potter in

Potter out

The Verdict: Time to go…

Chelsea opting for Potter in the dugout was a huge risk, and unfortunately for them, it looks like it’s one that’s not paid off.

The Solihull-born coach has taken just 34 points from a possible 75 during his spell in the dugout and is currently averaging just 1.36 points per match (Transfermarkt).

The Blues are also 11 points outside of the top four, so securing qualification for the Champions League at this stage looks unlikely.

Potter was a huge success at Brighton but the jump up to Chelsea may have been a step too far, so Boehly would be making the right decision by letting him go before it’s too late.