Graham Potter stated that he is not to blame for Chelsea's problems after the struggling Blues' humiliating 1-0 loss to Southampton on Saturday.
The Premier League's bottom team defeated Potter's team, and they did it in part because of a spectacular free kick from James Ward-Prowse late in the first half.
Chelsea's winless streak in the league now stands at four games after Only twice since October has Southampton won in the company.
After their eighth goalless effort in their previous 13 games, Chelsea struggled to create clear chances and was booed off the field by angry supporters.
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The former manager of Brighton launched a forceful defence of his credentials as the heat mounted on Potter, who had only been hired in September to take over for the fired Thomas Tuchel.
Any criticism you receive after a 1-0 loss at home is understandable, said Potter.
"We've faced several difficulties integrating young players into the Premier League during this difficult time. It can be not easy even when the results aren't in your favour".
"I'm sure some folks will believe I'm the issue. They are not correct".
"I'm not arrogant enough to claim their viewpoint is unworthy of expression. My responsibility is to assist the team in overcoming a challenging time".
In the January transfer window, Chelsea spent more than £300 million ($361 million) on new additions, but Potter has yet to translate that significant expenditure into improved performance.
Knowing he would lose his job, Potter acknowledged that Chelsea's most recent loss, which came only days after a 1-0 loss against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League first-leg match semifinals, was another setback.
"In actuality, our first-half performance was a step backwards. Potter observed that the second half's answer was adequate but could have been better".
"With all due respect to Southampton, it is unacceptable that we lost 1-0 at home to them. I shared equal responsibility for the first half as everyone else. The performance was not excellent".
Sekou Mara's kick to the head during the second half resulted in a significant injury to captain César Azpilicueta, who had to leave the field on a stretcher and wear an oxygen mask.
He is in the hospital. He was speaking to his wife and was awake. We have a lot of concerns. He's in the finest place, and we'll continue to watch over him, added Potter.
"I believe he was asleep. All necessary precautions are essential. It was unsettling. A terrible incident occurred".
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