Former Chelsea boss Graham Potter has broken his silence on Mason Mount’s controversial Chelsea departure, offering heartfelt praise for the midfielder who recently reminded the football world of his brilliance during a dazzling Europa League cameo.

Mount, once a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge, left the club in the summer of 2023 for Manchester United after failing to agree a new contract under Potter’s brief reign. The transfer divided the Chelsea faithful, with many questioning the decision to let go of one of the club’s own. Now, nearly a year later, Potter – now manager of West Ham – has publicly addressed the situation for the first time.

Speaking ahead of West Ham’s clash against Manchester United, Potter spoke fondly of Mount both as a person and a player.

“A pleasure to work with, I have to say. Really, really, really good guy who gave his best every day,” said the Hammers boss.

“Fantastic quality. His goals the other night is what Mason is, what he’s about. He’s got that capacity to do that. He did that in the Champions League for Chelsea against AC Milan.”

Indeed, Mount’s brace off the bench against Athletic Bilbao on Thursday night turned the tie in United’s favour, marking his first real impact since joining the Red Devils. Injuries had previously plagued his Old Trafford career, with the 26-year-old missing around 50 matches since the move.

Reflecting on Mount’s journey, Potter acknowledged the difficulties the midfielder has faced, both at Chelsea and beyond.

“He’s probably had a tough few years, I would say, because of the situation with Chelsea and then going to a new club and maybe injuries.”

Mount’s final season at Chelsea was marked by contract disputes and limited appearances, and it was under Potter’s watch that the club failed to reach an agreement to extend his stay.

Despite all that, Potter harbours no bitterness – only admiration.

“But the quality of the person is at the highest level and the quality of the player is also at the highest level.”

“I have nothing but respect for Mason”

Potter’s words were tinged with the bittersweet reality of potentially facing Mount as an opponent this weekend, though he hopes his former player waits one more week before finding peak form.

“From my perspective I hope, as much as I like Mason, that it’s another week before he gets back to where he can be.”

He concluded with a strong endorsement of Mount’s character and resilience:

“I have nothing but respect for Mason as a person and as a player. He was going through a tough time with Chelsea and I’m sure he’s had a tough time since.

But I know the character, I know the person, it’ll only make him stronger.”

For Chelsea fans, Potter’s words may not heal the wound of losing one of Cobham’s finest – but they do shed light on the real challenges Mount endured during his Chelsea exit.