Chelsea star claims squad were ‘frustrated’ to see Graham Potter sacked as Blues boss

Kai Havertz has spoken out about former boss Graham Potter’s sacking and labelled it frustrating in a message to the Chelsea ownership.

Speaking after , the German forward paid tribute to interim coach Bruno Saltor, and claimed the players need to take responsibility for the downturn in form.

He said: “First of all, I have to say it is really nice and we have to respect Bruno and the coaching staff for standing in front of the team when the manager got the sack.

“The club has to respect those guys. But it is not our job to think about who is coming in, it is up to the owners to decide that.

“We have to do our job on the pitch but when you have a manager long-term it is easier for us players. It is not nice, we have to take responsibility for what is going on. We are at the front, everyone sees us. We are all very frustrated to see Graham go but we have to accept the situation.”

Former Brighton boss Potter was handed a five-year deal by new Chelsea owner Todd Boehly in September but after winning just 12 of his 31 games in charge of The Blues.

Potter’s last game in charge, a on Saturday, proved one loss to many for Potter, and he received his marching orders the following day.

Interim boss Bruno said Potter’s sacking had been difficult for himself and the players, but commended their attitude in the Liverpool draw.

Speaking after the match, he said: “It’s been really difficult for them because it’s not the first time they’ve been in this situation this season and as a player you invest a lot in the manager as well. There have been some great relationships created with the players and the players suffer.

“But Graham has been really supportive with them after leaving and you could see that on the pitch tonight. The boys gave everything and they fought.

“It’s been really difficult for me to enjoy this experience, truly. It’s been really difficult, sad with disappointment, but I’ve just focused on being the best version of myself, trying to help the boys, be supportive and just focusing on hour after hour, day by day.”

Chelsea’s search for a new manager continues, with both Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique currently tipped to take over the hot seat at Stamford Bridge.