sport news The blueprint that saved Graham Potter's job: Return to 3-4-3 earned crucial ... trends now
Graham Potter went back to a setup that has brought so much recent joy under Antonio Conte and Thomas Tuchel for the two games that were defining for his Chelsea future.
Chelsea feared they may have to divert from their intention to stick with Potter for this season and next at least after their record January spree failed to spark an improvement in results.
But when Potter needed it most he inspired Chelsea to two huge wins against Leeds and Borussia Dortmund to quell the doubts about his future.
After so much tinkering – much of it enforced – Potter’s deployment of a back three paid off handsomely.
He has tried it before during his Stamford Bridge reign but has had more players capable of making it a success available and seem like a setup he can build on in the last two games.
Graham Potter went back to basics to help inspire Chelsea to a return to winning ways
Now a template is in place it is easier to see where some of his fringe players may fit in when called upon and future signings too.
Sportsmail took a closer look at the formation and some of his options for the various roles in it.
Goalkeeper
Kepa Arrizabalaga has cemented his place as No.1 amid Edouard Mendy’s injury issues this season. Question marks over some of the goals he has conceded but been far more assured than earlier in his Chelsea career.
Has impressed staff with his personality and dedication to the game and clearly a leader too, ending the last two games with the armband. Done well enough to leave Chelsea reconsidering their goalkeeper plans for the summer and Mendy on the way back from broken finger.
Right-sided centre back
Wesley Fofana is ideal for the role with his defensive qualities, comfort on the ball and pace. Helps Chelsea defend on the halfway line knowing he can get back.
Also comfortable in and able to get across to cover in wide areas and contribute at the start of attacking moves. Trevoh Chalobah is one alternative candidate for the position too.
Centre-back
Kalidou Koulibaly played against Leeds and Dortmund but when he regains fitness would likely be Thiago Silva.
Both experienced defenders with know-how to read game expertly enabling them to deal with central danger and be security blanket for outside central defenders if needed. Koulibaly knew there would be an adaptation period after eight years in Italy and looked a more viable option of late.
Kalidou Koulibaly has looked a more viable option as of late though Thiago Silva will likely take his place when he returns to fitness
Left-sided centre back
Balance provided by having a left footer is key. Benoit Badiashile has similar attributes to Fofana plus that natural left foot. Been hugely impressive since his January arrival.
What Marc Cucurella lacks physically compared to Badiashile he made up for with his tenacity against Dortmund.
Was on the front foot all night and outstanding. Been a difficult time for Spaniard on and off the pitch but spell out of team looks
