On a day when the memory of the late, great Gianluca Vialli acted as a unifying force, it felt imperative for Chelsea’s players to show pride in the badge. Anything less would have been a betrayal. Chelsea’s fans simply wanted evidence of some heart, anything to suggest another manager is not about to be forced out, and the result was that Graham Potter could feel the pressure lightening a little by the time this flawed contest was done.
The relief was immense when Kai Havertz, accepting the responsibility that comes with a £62m fee, barrelled in a header midway through the second half. Havertz’s sixth goal of the season calmed the noise. It brought Chelsea their second win in 10 games and, although it took some fine saves from Kepa Arrizabalaga to deny Crystal Palace a point, victory at least gives Potter some breathing space.
