EPL: Why Potter took out Cucurella, Havertz against Aston Villa

Chelsea manager, Graham Potter in a statement has explained his decision to make a double substitution at half-time during their 2-0 win at Aston Villa.

According to Potter, the reason behind his action was purely tactical.

Chelsea went into half-time one goal up after Mason Mount pounced on Tryone Mings’ error.

The Blues had to deal with a lot of pressure, with Kepa Arrizabalaga producing a string of fine saves.

Potter made some changes before the second half, by substituting both Marc Cucurella and Kai Havertz and bringing on Kalidou Koulibaly and Cesar Azpilicueta as he switched to a flat back five.

When asked about the changes, Potter told ChelseaTV after the game: “It was more tactical.

“I thought we had to probably be a back five, more so, and be a bit stronger in the midfield area so we just had to adjust it.

“Sometimes [changes] go for you, sometimes they don’t. Credit to the players, they’re all ready to fight, they’re all ready to help the team.”