Graham Potter admits ‘awkward conversations’ needed to deal with bloated Chelsea squad
Raham Potter says he will have to hold “awkward” talks with a number of Chelsea players due to the bloated size of his squad.
A huge splash in the January market left the Blues with 33 players in their first team, with eight new faces arriving and only Jorginho gone.
The situation is a particular problem in the Champions League where only three new names can be added to their 25-man roster, although Potter played down the headache and insists the club are “aware of who we need to talk to “.
The manager told reporters: “There will be some awkward conversations as only eleven can play.
“You have to be as honest as possible and respect that the players want to play and compete, but they have to be patient and help the team.”
Chelsea have been hit by a serious injury crisis over the past two months and yet the spending spree comes just as Ben Chilwell, Raheem Sterling and Reece James return to the squad for Friday’s game with Fulham.
Moreover, Hakim Ziyech and Omari Hutchinson ended up staying put as deadline date loan exits crumbled.
Enzo Fernandez might not make the match while waiting for his papers.
“I’m not complaining,” Potter said of his embarrassment over wealth. “It’s exciting, but it’s a test for me and the staff.
“We have a lot of good players and we need to create an environment where there is healthy competition. Only eleven can play, that’s how it is, but it’s about being ready and supporting the team.
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