Chelsea head coach Graham Potter has delivered his verdict on AC Milan, Olivier Giroud and Rafael Leao ahead of the Champions League clash against the Italian side.
The 2022/23 Champions League campaign has not started well for Chelsea and they are in need of a good result against AC Milan.
Still under the management of Thomas Tuchel, the Blues dropped all three points in their opening game of the group against Dinamo Zagreb.
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Mislav Orsic scored the only goal of the game in a match that turned out to be the German head coach's last one in charge.
Brighton and Hove Albion manager Potter took over the reigns at Chelsea and his first fixture as boss was the west London side's second group game.
Despite taking the lead, the Blues were pegged back against Red Bull Salzburg and held to a 1-1 draw.
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Currently Chelsea sit bottom of Group E and desperately need points if they want to make the Round of 16.
On Wednesday night, AC Milan will be welcomed to Stamford Bridge in a pivotal match.
After a 2-1 win against Crystal Palace thanks to a late winner from Conor Gallagher, the Blues will come into this game in high spirits.
The visitors meanwhile sit fifth in Serie A and defeated Empoli 3-1 at the weekend.
Ahead of the game, Potter addressed the media at Stamford Bridge. He was asked about what he expects from Milan and former Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud in this contest.
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Potter replied: "I've been really impressed. There is a clear idea of how they want to attack and defend. They have different ways to score and Giroud is someone Chelsea know very well.
"He is a fantastic player, plays the came in a really good way, uses his qualities and strengths and is an important player for AC Milan."
He continued: "I’m looking forward to playing the game. They are a top team and we have to be really good to get the result we want.”
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The match will see Portuguese forward Leao, who has been linked with a move to Chelsea, likely feature.
Reportedly the Blues are 'on alert' regarding the forward and are willing to offer up to €120 million plus a player in exchange.
Potter was asked about whether he feels the 23-year-old has the quality to play in the Premier League.
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He said: “I’ve been really impressed with him whenever I’ve watched the games. He is making a difference for AC Milan and is contributing to how they attack and score goals. So congratulations to him for that.
"He is a top player. In terms of what happens in the future, who knows whether he can do this or not?
"He has the capability for sure from what I’ve seen because he is affecting the game at the highest level against top opponents.”
Topics: Chelsea, Champions League, AC Milan, Graham Potter, Olivier Giroud
Sam Collins