"His ability is definitely not questionable" - Chelsea's Reece James defends Graham Potter despite poor run of form

Chelsea right-back Reece James has defended Graham Potter as the pressure mounts on the Blues boss. Potter's side have now lost six of their last 11 games across competitions.

Their most recent defeat came in the Premier League on Sunday (February 26) in a 2-0 reverse at Tottenham Hotspur. Goals from Oliver Skipp and Harry Kane proved decisive, leaving the tenth-placed Blues 11 points off fourth-placed Spurs.

Speculation is growing over Potter's future with each setback. However, James has defended the Chelsea coach, telling BeIN SPORT that it will take time for the club to turn their fortunes around:

"Nothing happens overnight. We don’t just wake up tomorrow, and we’re out of the situation we’re in; it’s going to take weeks and months to get to where we’re meant to be."

He continued:

"But we’re all on the same page; we’re sticking together, and that’s a big positive."

James then commented on Potter's credentials as Chelsea manager compared to the former managers he has played under. The right-back added:

"Yeah, for sure. Everyone has seen how good of a manager he is. That showed when he was at Brighton, and they were in and around top four. His ability is definitely not questionable."

Potter succeeded Thomas Tuchel last September and has overseen nine wins, seven draws and ten defeats in 26 games across competitions. He signed a six-year contract, with the Blues higher-ups backing him to oversee a long-term project.

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Chelsea boss Potter gives update on Thiago Silva after Brazilian suffers injury against Tottenham

Thiago Silva picked up a knock against Spurs.

Silva was forced off in the 2-0 defeat to Spurs on Sunday after a tackle from Kane. The veteran defender trudged off the pitch with a perceived problem to his left knee.

Fears have grown over the extent of the injury, as Silva is integral for Chelsea. Potter spoke after the loss and provided an update on the former Paris Saint-Germain defender. He said (via the Evening Standard):

“I’m not sure. Hopefully it’s not too serious, but I haven’t spoken to the doctor enough to have a diagnosis for you.”

Silva recently signed a new one-year deal, keeping him tied to Stamford Bridge till 2024. He has featured in 27 games across competitions, helping the side keep eight clean sheets.

Potter, fortunately, has Wesley Fofana back from a long-term injury, while Benoit Badiashile arrived at the club from AS Monaco last month. Chelsea next face Leeds United at home in the Premier League on Saturday (March 4).