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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Jonathan Gorrie

Thomas Frank backs Graham Potter with Chelsea circumstances ‘difficult’

Brentford manager Thomas Frank believes the circumstances at Chelsea have made it “difficult” for Graham Potter.

The Blues boss is under massive pressure at Stamford Bridge after a dreadful run of form.

The former Brighton manager has struggled to get the most of a squad strengthened by a £300m January spend and his team are closer to the relegation zone than they are the top four.

Sunday’s defeat at rivals Tottenham made it just one win in 11 games, with Potter admitting fans had every right to be “upset and angry”.

While the club are believed to be willing to back the former Brighton manager, supporters appear to be in open revolt.

Potter revealed the extent of the online abuse had taken a toll on his mental health.

Frank, however, believes the lay of the land at Stamford Bridge has not helped the 47-year-old during the opening few months of his reign.

The January spend brought in eight new players, six of whom are available right away, leaving Chelsea with a bloated squad.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Frank said: “He’s a very good coach and it’s proven that he can do a good job. A good coach can work at every club.

"This is not against Chelsea. It’s just that sometimes the circumstances create an environment where it’s difficult to get everything to just click.”

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