Joe Cole reveals when Graham Potter will experience his main challenge as Chelsea manager

Joe Cole
Photo: Michael Regan/Getty Images

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New Chelsea manager Graham Potter has had a wonderful start to his reign as Chelsea manager.

So far, Chelsea are unbeaten under Potter, and his side got another victory in the 2-1 win over RB Salzburg.

Former Chelsea ace Joe Cole has hailed Chelsea’s start und er Potter, and he has also warned that the big test with come after January.

“He’s come into the club, he’s given everyone a fresh start,” Cole told BT Sport when quizzed about Potter’s first few games in charge.

“Players like Kepa [Arrizabalaga], he’s come into the fold. For me, the first 10 games were the danger for Potter.

“It’s a long-term appointment. That’s for sure. Chelsea traditionally go for a big name for immediate success but these new owners, they want to build the club.

“The first [nine] games, he’s had a look at everyone. He’s made five changes on multiple occasions. He’s brought everyone in, it’s a happy camp at the moment.

“The challenges will come in the new year, when he gets to the business end [of the season] when he starts to settle on a team.

“He’s left Mason [Mount] out tonight, the first time he has left him out. He’s looked at different systems.

“But he has done so well with managing the squad in these early stages, while still getting results. That is very difficult.”