‘Absolutely top with us’: Graham Potter has loved working with £22m Chelsea player, he could leave in January

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Graham Potter says it’s been a pleasure to manage Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.

Speaking ahead of his side’s Premier League game against Bournemouth, Potter was full of praise for the Senegal international.

Mendy will be aiming to start between the sticks next Tuesday for Chelsea’s first competitive game since the World Cup began.

The 30-year-old has played the last three league fixtures, having not featured in any of the previous six.

An injury in September meant he handed over the gloves to Kepa Arrizabalaga, who conceded just twice before picking up his own physical problems.

Kepa’s absence allowed Mendy to retain his number one jersey, a position he didn’t fill with much pride.

He allowed seven goals to slip past him in three matches, with Chelsea defeated in each outing.

This downward spiral in form has reportedly forged an unhappy relationship between the ‘keeper and the board.

Graham Potter makes Edouard Mendy admission

Todd Boehly is apparently considering replacing Mendy, who himself is said to have rejected a new deal due to feeling ‘disrespected’ by his employers.

All does not sound well in the Senegalese’s camp, even if his manager has softened any potential negativity surrounding the player.  

“It’s not my place I don’t think to speak publicly about player’s contract situation. I think that’s between them and the club,” Potter replied when asked about Mendy’s current suggested predicament.

“Mendy has been absolutely top with us, with me. Great guy, happy around the place. But in terms of his contract, it’s not up to me to comment on.”

Potter might be pleased with the £22m arrival from Rennes, but are these feelings shared?

Mendy may well be eyeing up the January transfer window as an opportunity to end his disappointing spell at Chelsea.