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Football London
Football London
Sport
Sam Hill

Graham Potter unlocks potential in Chelsea's next 'Cesc Fabregas' in crucial win vs Leeds

Graham Potter may have found Chelsea's next Cesc Fabregas as the Blues finally picked up a win after a poor run of results in the Premier League. Wesley Fofana headed home from a Ben Chilwell cross in the second half against Leeds to seal all three points on a crucial afternoon for Potter and his side.

After a poor display in the first half, which saw fans boo their team off the pitch at half-time, Chelsea responded with a better showing in the second half and were able to hold on to secure a vital win. It was reported prior to kick-off that Potter needed to pick up wins against Leeds and Borussia Dortmund to save his job at Stamford Bridge as pressure built on the former Brighton boss.

Midfield has been an area of concern for the Blues this season but the addition of Enzo Fernandez in a British record-breaking transfer in January has helped address that problem. The Argentine midfielder has been a shining light in a dismal run of results and showed his quality once again in the win against Leeds.

READ MORE: Chelsea player ratings vs Leeds United as Wesley Fofana shines and Kai Havertz poor again

Fernandez lined up alongside Mateo Kovacic, playing in a more advanced role to help in transitions between defence and attack. The Argentina international became the first Chelsea player in all competitions this season to record 10+ accurate long balls (10/12), ball recoveries (10) and final third passes (22/30) in a single game.

Fernandez showed shades of Fabregas during his time at Stamford Bridge, connecting play and carrying out his responsibilities at both ends of the pitch. The 21-year-old continuously made himself available to receive the ball and his vision helped unlock a stubborn Leeds defensive shape on a number of occasions - similar to that of the Spaniard who was renowned for his passing ability whilst he also showed his defensive qualities in a deeper role during his time with the Blues.

His partnership with Kovacic in the middle of the pitch is something that Potter may look to build on throughout March as long as both players are able to stay fit. N'Golo Kante's return to training coming as a welcome boost which could see Fernandez thrive even more at Stamford Bridge.

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