"We had to make a change" - Chelsea manager Graham Potter admits he made a mistake by playing 27-year-old star out of position against Aston Villa

Chelsea manager Graham Potter has claimed that Raheem Sterling is an option at right wing-back in the absence of Reece James. However, the former Brighton & Hove Albion boss was forced to tweak his plans at the break in his team's recent 2-0 win over Aston Villa.

Chelsea consolidated their fourth spot in the table with their third straight Premier League win under Potter at Villa Park on Sunday, October 16.

Mason Mount opened the scoring in the sixth minute after pouncing on a poor clearance by Tyrone Mings. Kepa Arrizabalaga helped the visitors maintain their lead with six saves in the first half. Mount doubled the Blues' lead in the 65th minute with a well-taken free kick.

Speaking after the contest, Potter shared his thoughts on how he planned to cope with James' absence. He told reporters (via Football London):

"It can happen sometimes when you lose a key player, you need to try to get a feel. We tried to be back three in the build-up and back four defensively with Raheem [Sterling as a wing-back]."

Sterling, who arrived from Manchester City for £47.5 million earlier this summer, started the match in a defensive role on the right flank. However, Potter had to adjust in the first half, pushing the forward to the front three and shifting Ruben Loftus-Cheek to right wing-back.

Potter introduced Cesar Azpilicueta after the break to properly balance the system. Analyzing the tactical tweak, the Blues head coach added:

"I thought we started the game quite well in the first 15 minutes but then we lost a bit of momentum and they were able to put pressure on, pick up second balls and get behind us. We had to make a change at half time and the boys did it well. We've got options there."

Meanwhile, James is set to be ruled out of action for eight weeks with a knee injury sustained in Chelsea's 2-0 win at AC Milan last week.

Chelsea boss Graham Potter provides update on Reece James' injury situation

During a post-match press conference, Graham Potter was asked about Reece James' chances of being involved in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar next month. He responded:

"In terms of his involvement in the World Cup, I don't know. It will depend on how he recovers. He will give everything. I'm sure he will."

He continued:

"But he is in a brace for four weeks and that slows everything down. Now we have to support him and get him strong."

James has netted two goals and contributed as many assists in 11 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea this campaign.