Chelsea interim head coach Bruno Saltor praised his players’ reaction to a difficult few days following Tuesday’s goalless draw with Liverpool.
Chelsea had several clear chances to win their first game following Graham Potter’s dismissal, with Kai Havertz denied a second-half winner by a VAR review after a shot rebounded into the net via his arm.
The result keeps Chelsea in the bottom half of the Premier League table, but there was reason for optimism after a game in which Liverpool only managed two shots from inside the Blues’ area.
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Former Brighton and Hove Albion full-back Bruno spoke after the draw about his pride in Chelsea’s performance, despite the fact that they failed to score in a sixth consecutive home league game this season.
“I asked the players to play with their hearts and I think we saw that,” the Spaniard told Sky Sports.
“We gave everything, we created chances. We scored twice, one offside and one handball.
“I think it was a big performance from the boys, it’s a good start for them after some difficult, emotional days.
“They were able to keep themselves focused, to use their heads and their hearts as well, so credit to them.
“It’s been a really difficult season for them. To come back from the news we had in the last few days is incredible.
“It shows they are able to focus on the moment and on performing well. They have to be proud of themselves.”
N’Golo Kante, who captained the side on his first league start since last August, was one of Chelsea’s major positives.
Kante won five of his seven duels and completed all three of his attempted tackles, but Bruno believes that Chelsea will benefit from his experience as well.
“He’s outstanding,” Bruno said of Kante. “Both with what he brings to the team in terms of football, and what he brings in terms of leadership. He’s a massive plus for the team.”
With Potter’s long-term replacement not expected to be named soon, Bruno was asked if he expects to be in place for Saturday’s trip to Wolves, but the 42-year-old is taking things day by day.
“I expect to go home now and rest, then go game by game,” he said.
“That’s what we are trying to do, trying to be as professional as we can, help the club and present the best that we can.
“It’s a difficult situation, but I think everyone is doing the best they can.
“We just need to relax, be calm and assess the boys.
” I know it sounds boring, but it’s a day by day job.
“The only thing I can say is I’m happy for the first performance, but it’s what they [the players] deserve. It’s credit to them, it’s not credit to me.