Chelsea boss relieved to pick up all three points in Palace win

Chelsea boss Graham Potter admitted he would be lying if he did not say he was relieved to pick up all three points in Sunday’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace.

The Blues sealed the victory in the 64th minute at Stamford Bridge after Kai Havertz escaped Cheick Doucoure inside the penalty area and planted a header past Vicente Guaita.

Potter’s side had only won once in their previous nine outings before the victory against Patrick Vieira’s Eagles.

Chelsea are now 10 points off the Champions League places.

“I would be lying if I said I wasn’t relieved because it’s nice to get a win,” said Potter post-match.

“I thought we played better than getting no points against Fulham. And when you get a red card for Joao Felix, who is the last person you think you’d get a red card, you think: ‘What have we done here?’ 

“You have to keep going, and you have to deal with the bad times, deal with the tough situations, accept the criticism that comes your way, and take responsibility. 

“That’s what we’ve tried to do. The players have suffered, of course. It’s not nice. That is why it’s important they enjoy the win today, the three points, and it gives us a shot in the arm for the weekend.

“It was an emotional day, obviously, because of the tribute to Gianluca [Vialli], which I thought was very fitting for a man of his quality. I thought the crowd were great today in terms of supporting the team.

“They recognised the moment we’re in and recognised the young players on the pitch. They stuck with the guys and got us over the line. In the end, it’s an important three points.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD