Graham Potter insists there was ‘a lot to like’ about Chelsea’s performance despite the club’s Carabao Cup exit to Manchester City.
Chelsea were eliminated from the Carabao Cup following a 2-0 defeat at the Etihad, as goals from Riyad Mahrez and Julian Alvarez secured progress to the fourth round for Pep Guardiola’s side.
City were the better side, but Chelsea squandered a number of first-half chances. Stefano Ortega twice saved from Christian Pulisic, while teenager Lewis Hall missed a good opportunity from close range.
The defeat continued a difficult period for Chelsea, who have now won just twice in seven fixtures across all competitions. Potter expressed his disappointment with their exit but insists there were positives to take from his side’s performance.
“We’re disappointed with the result but in terms of how we played, we created some good chances,” said Potter.
“We weren’t perfect but we did a lot right. There was a better structure and a better performance level. The team looked closer to what we want it to look like.
“The boys had great courage against a top team. We had big personality to try to play out and play through. It’s not easy because they defend so well. Their keeper got man of the match which tells a little bit of the story.
“Overall it was a step forward for us. There was a lot to like.”
Potter reserved praise for Hall, who was making just his second senior appearance for Chelsea. The 18-year-old produced an impressive performance and Potter was pleased with the maturity in the teenager’s performance.
“I really enjoyed his performance. He did brilliantly. He took responsibility, took the ball in tight areas, attacked the box. He showed great quality and effort.
“He could have scored a couple of goals on another day. It was a really nice performance, a mature performance. He’s a quiet lad but he goes about his work, and I’ve been really impressed with him.”
