'He did everything': Graham Potter raves about Chelsea player's display in last night's 2-1 win
Graham Potter claims Denis Zakaria did “everything” on his Chelsea debut to impress him last night.
Zakaria, 25, was finally rewarded for his patience this season with his first ever appearance for the Blues yesterday.
The central midfielder, who’s on loan from Juventus this campaign, started Wednesday’s Champions League group stage match against Dinamo Zagreb.
It was a dream debut for the Switzerland international, scoring the winning goal in a 2-1 victory.
He caught the eye at Stamford Bridge with an all-action display in the centre of the park, which did include a well-taken goal powered in from inside the box.
Denis Zakaria against Dinamo Zagreb
Potter has overlooked Zakaria since he took charge as Chelsea head coach, but the player sent out a big message to him with last night’s performance.
Surely, he’s in line for more minutes further down the line. If not, you suspect supporters will be on the manager’s case.
“I thought he was really good. You can see what he brings, the quality he has and he played with enthusiasm. He had good discipline and got forward when he could. Really pleased with him,” Potter told BT Sport.
“He certainly did what we asked which was to give us competition there. He did everything he could. He helped the team and scored – a great debut.”
Zakaria definitely played like someone with a point to prove in midweek.
He gave everybody a boost with his strong performance in midfield, so now looks like a great option to have looking ahead.
The midfielder shared the pre-match message from Potter was to play like he’s been training.
Well, he certainly ticked a lot of boxes against Dinamo Zagreb and did play with freedom.
Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.
