Graham Potter has endured an arduous six months as Chelsea manager, but things have began to take a very sinister turn with some awful messages coming from anonymous fans
Chelsea manager Graham Potter revealed he has received death threats from anonymous so-called ‘supporters’ saying they “want me to die and want my kids to die”.
The former Brighton and Hove Albion boss has been the target of enormous criticism ever since he took over the reins at the West Londoners. Chelsea have only recorded two victories in their last 14 matches in all competitions.
He has been given firm support and backing from Chelsea owner Todd Boehly and other stakeholders, who even said they want to manage his progress in “years not months”. However, while Potter is used to fans jeering him in West London, things have suddenly become very sinister.
“As much as I’ve had support, I’ve had some not particularly nice emails come through that want me to die and want my kids to die,” said Potter during his recent press conference. “So that’s obviously not pleasant to receive.”
“You have got to take the situation for what it is, take the criticism, but don’t get drawn into stuff that is incorrect. Try to have perspective but at the same time acknowledge the criticism and bad feeling. That’s how it should be.
“It’s a challenge and if you go to work and somebody is swearing abuse at you it’s not going to be pleasant.” Potter initially began his pre-match press conference, which was supposed to preview Chelsea’s clash against Tottenham Hotspur, with some classic gallows humour, striding towards his desk before saying “sorry I’m late guys, I’ve just come out of a crisis meeting”.
However, the Englishman, who has also managed Swansea City and Swedish side Ostersunds, also went on to detail the effect Chelsea’s struggles has been having on himself. “The world is tough for everybody,” Potted added. “We are going through an energy crisis, a cost of living crisis, people are striking every other week. Nobody wants to hear about the poor old Premier League manager.
He also added, “You get upset when you are in private with your family. My job is to act how I think I should act in the best way for the team and the club, and act with integrity.
“I never want to be anybody else. I don’t want to be fake. I will be me and I will do my best and if my best isn’t good enough, OK, I accept that.”
SOURCE: dailystar.co.uk
