Mueez Ajao
– Chelsea interim head coach Bruno Saltor says it has been a “difficult 24 hours for all of us” after Graham Potter’s sacking.
– Potter and assistant coach Billy Reid left the club on Sunday after only 31 games.
– Bruno and Reid were part of Potter’s coaching staff at Brighton and joined Chelsea with him in September.
Also Read: Chelsea sack manager Potter after seven months in charge
– “It’s been really difficult, at every single level, especially emotionally,” said Bruno.
– “You have to do the press conference, you have to deal with the players – it’s hard.
– “My relationship with Graham and Billy, and how it affects families – it’s difficult to deal with that.
– “It’s a sad day for the staff because Graham and Billy are two top coaches and top human beings.
– “I have to be as professional as I can and try to help and guide the players. I’m just focusing on what I can control and going day by day.”
– When Chelsea confirmed the changes, they issued a statement which said Potter has “agreed to collaborate with the club to facilitate a smooth transition”.
– Asked what that means, former Brighton defender Bruno said: “It probably means that I’m here right now, trying to keep the process going. We’re just trying to collaborate as best we can.
– “Graham did an amazing job. Football is a really complex business and we have to keep going.”
– Potter was sacked with Chelsea 11th in the Premier League after Saturday’s 2-0 home defeat by Aston Villa.
– They are 12 points off the top four with 10 games of the season remaining, beginning with Tuesday’s match at home to Liverpool.
– Bruno said he had spoken with Potter and the club’s owners and that they are “really supportive”.
– “The responsibility is all of ours,” said the former Valencia player. “We have to keep it positive and focus on tomorrow’s game. That’s the energy we’re working with.
– “I see it as an opportunity for the players. We’re representing Chelsea, a club with an amazing history, and it’s about winning, about dominating.
– “It’s a massive challenge. I’ve had just four years coaching but been involved in football for 24 years. I’ve got a lot of experience in changing rooms, and what I’ll try to do is help and guide the players because I’ve been in those situations before.”
