Chelsea make final Graham Potter decision as Blues’ boss position vs Spurs confirmed

Graham Potter is expected to be in the Chelsea dugout when they travel to north London on Sunday to face Tottenham Hotspur.

The 47-year-old has come under increasing pressure following Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Southampton, who are bottom of the Premier League, on Saturday afternoon.

Potter’s side sit 10th and have won just two of their last 14 Premier League matches, leaving them 16th in the form table – almost relegation worthy.

READ MORE: Chelsea’s relegation-threatened results outlined after Premier League form table revealed

“I am not stupid or naive,” said Potter at the weekend. “My job is to keep going and keep helping and supporting the team and take that criticism.”

The Chelsea board’s stance came shortly after the full-time whistle on Saturday following boos by the home crowd, as well as large sections online showing their dismay at Potter who they want to be sacked, with the hierarchy offering their firm backing.

Ben Chilwell revealed the dressing room mood was flat which saw the squad be given Sunday and Monday off before returning to their Cobham training ground on Tuesday to prepare for the clash against Spurs.

With the pressure increasing, Chelsea’s hierarchy has reiterated their stance, as reported by Nizaar Kinsella. They are reluctant to sack Potter, for now, with it being ‘business-as-usual’.

It’s claimed by club insiders that co-owner Todd Boehly and Co are prepared to back the 47-year-old through the difficult spell after handing him a five-year contract five months ago.

The squad also remain behind Potter to turn it around, with the report stating that ‘there remains a healthy respect in the squad for his friendly character’. But it is suggested that ‘some are reserving judgement about his ability to do the job’.

With Chelsea‘s position on Potter clarified, Ben Jacobs adds that the head coach is fully expected to be in the dugout at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday afternoon for their Premier League clash.

However, Potter won’t be joined by Antonio Conte, who remains in Italy recovering from his gallbladder surgery.

Spurs assistant Cristian Stellini confirmed: “No, I am not expecting Antonio is back for Chelsea. But I expect Antonio will be back the week after Chelsea.”