Graham Potter has claimed that Christian Pulisic will not depart Chelsea in the January transfer window. The United States men’s national team star is currently sidelined with a knee injury. However, the Blues boss revealed on Friday that the American was never going to leave this month anyway.

“No chance [of Pulisic leaving], no,” proclaimed Potter. “There was never any consideration of anything about that anyway but he’s a couple of months [out].”

“He’s disappointed but he’s optimistic that he can come back quicker than the two months,” Potter added. “So he’s in that phase where he’s just trying to keep his fingers crossed and hope that his rehab goes well.”

ESPN named Manchester United and Newcastle among the teams interested in signing Pulisic.

Potter backs Pulisic despite struggles at Stamford Bridge

The winger became the most expensive American soccer player of all time when Chelsea paid Borussia Dortmund $73 million in 2019. However, Pulisic hasn’t exactly been a smash hit since arriving to Stamford Bridge. While he started off fairly well with the Blues, he now has just one goal and two assists in 21 total matches this season.

Opportunities haven’t been plentiful either though. In fact, Pulisic managed to start about half of matches fit for since the start of last season. Injuries have also been an issue for the American as well. The winger has missed over 40 matches due to various injuries and illnesses since arriving to the club.

Blues will be without 11 players against Palace

Pulisic is one of 11 senior players at Chelsea on the injury list. The west London outfit limp into its game with Crystal Palace on Sunday without these players. Also, new signing Joao Felix will miss the match at the weekend. He picked up a red card in his debut against Fulham.

Chelsea desperately need a win against Palace to help right the ship. The Blues are currently 10th in the table. Chelsea only has seven wins in 18 Premier League matches.

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