March 4th 2023.
(Image Source: https://metro.co.uk) Graham Potter has underlined the importance of Kalidou Koulibaly in his Chelsea side, commending the defender’s ‘leadership and tranquillity’ following the success over Leeds United.
The Blues got their first league triumph in six after a 1-0 victory at Stamford Bridge on Saturday with Wesley Fofana heading home the game’s only goal.
The former Leicester City starlet made up a youthful back line that additionally included January signing Benoit Badiashile.
With Thiago Silva discounted for six weeks following a knee ligament injury suffered against Tottenham last week, Koulibably assumed the role as the more experienced one at the back.
The Senegal international has endured a difficult first season in England after his summer move from Napoli where his form has been censured.
Be that as it may, after helping Chelsea keep a clean sheet against Leeds, Potter asserted the centre-half is a significant presence at the back alongside his younger colleagues.
‘Sometimes it’s not easy to land and get going right away. We all want that to happen yet it isn’t so straightforward,’ Potter told a post-match press conference.
‘There has been a considerable measure of change and transition here however he is a great guy, wants the team to do well, cares a lot, and I thought he helped Wesley and Benoit [Badiashile]. He showed leadership and calmness which was really important for us. So I’m really happy for him.’
Fofana’s goal likewise finished a 396-minute goal drought and while Chelsea stay in 10th place, Potter accepts the victory will fill in as an enormous lift.
‘We’re excited with the success, that is without a doubt. We’ve had a troublesome period so I’m excited for the players and the supporters since they’ve needed to suffer,’ he said.
‘It was satisfying to get the goal. I thought we began the game well and made some opportunities. Playing against Leeds is consistently difficult since they’re high-intensity.
‘When we got the goal, it was a satisfying moment for us all and in the second half, it was a little us having something to lose.
‘That is the place you would anticipate that us should be given the run we’ve had. So at last, it’s truly great for the players to keep a clean sheet, win the game, and to have that feeling. It’s pleasant.’
MORE : Graham Potter lauds Wesley Fofana and Ben Chilwell impact after Chelsea secure much-needed win over Leeds
MORE : Graham Potter must call upon John Terry amid Chelsea crisis, suggests Paul Merson
(Image Source: https://metro.co.uk)
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