Graham Potter lauded Chelsea's perseverance as his struggling team reduced the strain on their stressed-out manager by defeating Leeds 1-0 on Saturday.

COURTESY/ Chelsea players celebrate Wesley Fofana's goal against Leeds United

Wesley Fofana's header from Ben Chilwell's corner in the 53rd minute gave Chelsea their third victory in their past 16 games overall.

Chelsea, now in 10th place in the Premier League, scored only their second goal in seven games overall, and they're first in 396 minutes.

Potter had to wait 48 days for his team to score at Stamford Bridge when the Blues manager endured constant criticism.

His dismissal was called for by Chelsea supporters, who had even threatened the family of the former Brighton manager with murder.

The boys are giving it their all. We're up against one of the most competitive teams in the league. It could be difficult for us if the game turns into Hawaii (flamboyant) football, up and down, Potter added.

PHOTO | COURTESY Graham Potter can finally breathe

"Yet they persisted. The crowd was beautiful, and they were rooting for us. We all want to win more quickly; they want that for us. Yet in the current situation, it's more complicated to do".

We maybe had a bit of a "we've got something to lose" attitude in the second half, which is an expectation considering our recent streak. The athletes benefit from winning games and experiencing that experience".

After snapping a three-match losing streak, Potter will have some breathing room as Chelsea attempts to reverse a 1-0 disadvantage against Borussia Dortmund in the Round of 16 Champions League second-leg match. Matches.

"It's good for morale and confidence. Because players care and do, the lads are suffering. As well as us, our fans have suffered, added Potter".

"The victory lets us rest and prepare for a crucial match (against Borussia Dortmund) on Tuesday night".

PHOTO | COURTESY Chelsea manager Graham Potter

Fofana, a former centre-back for Leicester, made his first appearance for Chelsea since suffering a knee injury against AC Milan in the Champions League in October.

In the absence of the seasoned defender Thiago Silva, who is out with an injury, Potter thinks Fofana can set an example.

According to Potter, Wesley sustained his injuries during the Milan game at home, which was a long time ago.

Because he has the speed and physicality to recover, he allows you to defend a bit higher up the pitch.

He is still a young player and is adjusting to Chelsea. He possesses that personality.