Graham Potter says £33m Chelsea player showed great ‘leadership’ in Leeds win

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Graham Potter claims Kalidou Koulibaly was a massive help for Chelsea against Leeds United.

Chelsea edged out Leeds on Saturday afternoon with a 1-0 victory at Stamford Bridge.

Wesley Fofana’s header in the second half was the only goal of the contest, which gifted the hosts a much-needed three points in the Premier League. Incidentally, the goalscorer shared afterwards that he had been practicing the corner routine in training.

The Blues will now turn attention back to the Champions League this Tuesday when they play Borussia Dortmund.

Koulibaly, 31, was the senior defender in Chelsea’s backline against Leeds.

The £33million star was the middle centre-back in a back three, with Potter deciding to ditch a back four and change his formation.

The Blues head coach was extremely complimentary of the Senegal international, claiming he looked like a real leader at the heart of defence.

When asked if Koulibaly is coming into form, Potter said (Football London): “Sometimes it’s not easy to land and hit the ground. We all want that to happen but it isn’t as straightforward as that. There has been a lot of change and transition here but he is a great guy, wants the team to do well, cares a lot, and I thought he helped Wesley and Benoit [Badiashile]. He showed leadership and calmness which was really important for us. So I’m really happy for him.”

Everyone knows it’s been a rocky debut season for Koulibaly in Chelsea colours, but it does feel like he’s slowly getting some rhythm back.

There is definitely improvements he can make to his game on the ball.

However, his defending and commitment looks much better.

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