Raheem Sterling stated he enjoyed playing as a wing-back in Graham Potter’s first match as Chelsea manager.
After joining Chelsea at the start of the season, Sterling played in the forward line under Thomas Tuchel, either as a winger or a false 9, but Potter gave him a new role for the match against Red Bull Salzburg, deploying him as a left wing-back.
The 27-year-old was able to make an impact, being given a license to get forward and scoring his side’s only goal of the night.
Sterling was asked about his new position after the match, explaining to BT Sport: “I played in a slightly different role here under the manager and it was one that I enjoyed, playing out wide here, and over time it’ll get better.”
He played wider than he usually does, often hugging the touchline, and confirmed that was a specific instruction from Potter.
“He wanted me out wide getting at the full-back, getting in the box, creating chances. Like I said, the more time under him, I think it’ll get better for us,” he added.
The match ended 1-1 with Salzburg equalising late in the game. It’s a result that leaves Chelsea in a precarious position in their group after losing their first match against Dinamo Zagreb.
Next up is AC Milan, and Sterling admitted Chelsea need three points against the Rossoneri if they are to advance from the Champions League group stages.
“It was a disappointing one today but we’ve got a big game coming up next and it’s one that we definitely to get the win in,” he concluded.