Our Community Sends Messages to Graham Potter

Your words to the boss

As we know, Graham Potter and his kids received wishes of death after the defeat to Southampton last week.

This is always the very small minority, but it’s also absolutely disgusting and happening far too often in this sport, and generally in life. People think they have the right to abuse and wish death on them for something so trivial, it’s just sickening.

So I asked you all to send your messages of support to our manager, no matter what you feel about whether you think he is the right man to lead us or not. Remember, judging from our polls last week, most of you here do still believe he is.

I’m ensured that Potter will see these messages, so here they are!

Luke (Writes Chelsea Waffle): “We all know that we’re not where we want to be at the moment, but, personally I have NEVER wanted a a manager to SUCCEED MORE at our club! Graham, keep working, keep putting your thoughts across, don’t change and you will succeed! Ignore these so called “fans”, they’re not fans they’re keyboard warriors with no life and no right to say anything to you or your family!”

Keshav (KN16): “Hi Graham. First things first, the messages you and your family have received are deplorable and no true fan would ever do something like this. These are just some idiots who have no idea what Chelsea stands for. Stay strong and know we are all on your side :)

“Second, us as fans will always react emotionally. That’s why we need more balanced heads in owners and in you as a manager. While some might say PotterOut, in reality we all want you to succeed. Because if you succeed then the club succeeds. We hope for a quick turnaround in our season and better times ahead and for you to be the one heading it!”

Joshua: “You're an amazing man and an amazing character Graham, we're all behind you(at least the vast majority of us) and we seriously condemn these disgusting and sickening and vile acts against you and your family. Take however much Time you need and WE WANT YOU TO SUCCEED. If you succeed, Chelsea succeed. I pray you're surrounded my joy,peace,love and happiness. Please as hard as it is, please don't listen to these individuals. We're extremely sorry you have to grow through this. While trying to do your day Job. We're all behind you more than ever. Forget those Scum. They don't deserve your energy. I pray the wife and the kids are surrounded by love and peace. And we're all behind them as well. No matter what. We're extremely sorry a human regardless has to go through this over a game of 90 minutes. We're extremely sorry and pray you're at peace Gaffer. MY GAFFER.”

Kevin Werner: “Hey Graham. I just want you to know that all REAL Chelsea fans are fully behind you and want you to succeed more than anything. We know that you’re facing such a tough task with all the new players coming in, injuries and pressure but I’ve never wanted a Chelsea manager to succeed more! I’ve backed you from the very beginning and I’ll keep backing you for years to come! Keep doing what you think is best and DON’T CHANGE! Be yourself, pick your players, implement your philosophy and the results will come. Can’t wait four our upcoming games and I am so so sorry about the messages from keyboard warriors who call themselves ‘Chelsea supporters’. WE’RE ALL WITH YOU GRAHAM.”

Dan: “I hope you know that many of us still admire your bravery for bearing this near-impossible task and we are with you 100% of the way. Noisy minorities often spew the most vitriol, but I hope this hasn’t changed your view on the fanbase as a whole. We know you’re trying your best and I hope that you and your family can maintain their well-being despite the struggles you’ve been put through.”

George: “To us supporters Chelsea is not just a club , it is more of a family. Every single person it takes to run the club are part of the Chelsea family. Us true Chelsea fans are behind you every step of the way , even if the results are not right there is absolutely no excuse for death threats and hate. The people that make these comments are NOT Chelsea fans and are absolutely not part of the Chelsea family. We can all admit things aren’t going right at the moment , but we all want to get behind you and see you succeed, we want to see you be the first English manager to win the prem. it is our job as true supporters to now get behind you and protect you from these vile people.”

Stephen Costi: “Firstly, the messages you received regarding yourself and your family are something that nobody should ever receive they are VILE and DISGUSTING and hope that there is some justice coming to those individuals. WE ARE BEHIND YOU.

“Secondly, we know results will come and in some games things just haven’t gone our way, keep persisting with your methods and putting your ideas across and our time will come.”

Dan Hill: “I write to you as a Chelsea fan of some 20 years. Supporting the club from Africa and never having been lucky enough to visit Stamford Bridge brings with it its own lack of true understanding of the community aspect & personal nature of living every day around Chelsea. So, to say I was upset that Thomas Tuchel went given the affection he had built up, the charisma he showed and the titles he led us to is the truth. I had reservations when you were appointed. I disconnected from the club for a few months as I felt it was going in a direction I wasn't used to, I wasn't comfortable with and I couldn't identify with.

“However, none of that was a reflection on you. In the same way I felt hurt when Frank Lampard left and Tuchel came in, so the same can be said when you were appointed.

“The facts of the current state of affairs are that this has been anything but an easy job for you. Reading your quotes yesterday and seeing you in your press conference, I got a clear sense of your human side, how you clearly want to do well for Chelsea and how you have the club's best interests at heart. Sometimes as an international fan, it's very easy to get caught up in things at face value simply because we are not privy to the inner workings of your day to day work and only ever receive updates about the club from second or third hand sources.

“In as much as you touched on how negatively the job has affected your mental health and your family, receiving heinous death threats and threats on the lives of your family, I want you to know that this is not a representation of all of us Chelsea fans. The majority of us understand what you are trying to do, where you are trying to take the club and that circumstances have been far from ideal.

“I know it has taken me longer than it should have to get to this point, and maybe you will never read this, but it's important to know that you have my support in the months and years ahead.

“You succeeding means Chelsea succeeding. And what you said about trying your best and being who you are no matter what really resonated with me. That's something I myself try to do every day in my life.

“So, thank you for taking the Chelsea job with all the baggage, expectation, unreasonable behaviour from some fans and nonsense you have had to put up with. It's far from the ideal job, but it is one you have willingly taken on and continue to take on despite all the obstacles in the hopes that we will all be successful.

“We are lucky to have a person of principle, of dignity, integrity and a positive set of values representing our club.

“We know that you don't have all the solutions right now, that you are working on them and that you need some time.

“I just wanted you to know that, in my small way from a distance I will be giving you that support and time.

“And I firmly believe that it is warranted. Above all, I believe you will guide Chelsea Football Club, the club I have loved passionately (often to a fault) for two thirds of my life to a bright future.

“Thank you for all you are doing and for the sacrifices you and your family make for us.

“And I am sorry for the way you have been treated.”

Chloe: “For countless reasons we know as a club we are not where we want to be at the moment. However being Chelsea means that in moments where everything is against us and we are doubted by everyone we find it within ourselves to believe. We’ve come back from the impossible, we’ve beaten the unbeatable and we always turn it around. Proper Chels know the road will be bumpy but we are heading in the right direction and will achieve greatness. The people who sent the threats aren’t fans they will never know what it means to be Chelsea, to fight and believe when the odds are against you. They are disgusting people who hide behind keyboards and don’t inhibit any of the spirit of the real Chelsea fans. I hope you and your family are ok and send my best wishes. I still believe that you can get us to where we need to be and that will make you proper Chels because you will have believed and fought to achieve your dreams when everything and everyone was against you.”

Felix: “First of all I would like to apologise because obviously some of the comments aimed at you from ‘fans’ and even the press are embarrassing. I would also like to send my best wishes to you and your family as I’m sure it cannot be an easy time for you all including settling into London. You have many of our full support and all those with sense wish you success, I’m sure it’s not easy to separate some emotional fans from those without belief but it is important you know we know the job you are doing is difficult and you will need time. I can’t wait until it all clicks. Good luck and best wishes, we are all with you Graham.”

Arnab: “Hello sir,I write this with lot of love and respect for you as the manager and more than that the human being you are. I have not loved how things have been at Chelsea for past few months but I do not understand the message and threats you and your family have received one bit. I hope you know we want you to be the manager to take us back to the top and i believe you can. After all this I m even more behind you to get one over the Spurs.”

Nichalos Lisewsky: “I find the abuse and threats disgusting and you should know, that no real fan would ever do such thing. Nobody deserves that and its not what real Chelsea fans do.

“You seem like an amazing person and one to really like and get around and I just want to let you know how much we are behind you and wish you all the succes with this fantastic football club that we all love.

“Its been rough, but you have handled it to perfection and we all want the best for you, both as a person and as the manager for Chelsea Football Club. Nobody could wish for more.

“I just want to tell you that everytime things get tough, you should know how many people out here that want you to be a succes. Don’t bother listening to anything else.

“We are all behind you and things will get better. We are together in this. All the best to you and your family.”

Gary: “You already know these people sending vile messages are NOT real Chelsea. The real fans are frustrated, sure, but only because we all want the same thing. The trolls want you to fail. We don’t. Keep at it Graham lad, we’ll get there!”

Chris: “Form is temporary, but class is permanent, and you sir are a classy individual! We are so lucky to have you and your staff driving this club into a new era. Best of luck to the many seasons ahead!”

Stuart: “Hope your as well, just want to say any real Chelsea fan will see that you’ve had the hardest start to managing Chelsea than anyone and appreciate you took a massive gamble in coming here, so kudos to you for having the bottle to do it!

“Fully believe your the man to lead us to title and trophies in the long term, and good times are around the corner! With that in mind I know it’s easier said than done but ignore the idiots that call themselves fan! The true one are with you!!”

George Stamford: “Onwards and upwards geezer, hope you know the positivity and support far out ways any of the low life’s opinions. True blue’s are all behind ya.”

James Prescott: “I want let you know I think you’re a great man, a good man and I appreciate all your hard work on behalf of Chelsea. You represent the club so well & I and all of us are absolutely rooting for you to succeed. Ignore the haters, they don’t represent the club or real fans.

“Even though it’s a tough moment, I and most fans are fully behind you.

“Sending support and best wishes to you and your family.”

Karan Dhar: “We’re behind all of you, please ignore a minority of people who feel the need to belittle/ abuse you or the players. Your journey shows your strength & resolve, it’s time to knuckle down & move forward together, good luck in the month ahead , let’s prove the doubters wrong!”

Adam McCarthy: “Graham you act with so much dignity and class it's a shame some of our so called fans can't. No body should have to endure abuse like that especially when innocent members of your family are brought into it. Carry on the good work mate and our luck will change I'm sure of it. We will all stick together.”

Rocky: “I just wanted to let you know that I personally admire your courage to take this job without a preseason and all of the other factors considered.

“You could've stayed in Brighton and continued the amazing work, but you chose to leave and take the challenge many others would not.

“In spite of the results and fan backlash, you continue to handle yourself admirably in the public eye, not letting your emotions consume you. That's not an easy thing to do.

“Keep up the good work, results will come.

“Your kids have a great father and a great role model. Be proud of yourself.”

Ryan Roberts: “Please accept our apologies and send our well wishes to your family: no one should have to go through what you have had to. The vile abuse that you and your family have received is absolutely not acceptable and absolutely not from ‘true’ supporters of our wonderful club.

“I remember when you were announced as our new manager, I was really excited about what you would bring to our club, and still am. I, and many others, are fully behind you and understand the tumultuous situation surrounding the club. I can not begin to imagine the undertaking of building not only a new team but a new structure and ownership.

“I hope that these messages show you that we are fully behind you, your family and your team.”

Jonathan Merrick: “Firstly I am appalled at the news that you have received these disgusting emails from a bunch of saddos professing to support the club. They are lonely embittered individuals leading unhappy lives - empty lives with nothing to do but spew out vile social media messages day in day out. You will not be their only target - anything they chance upon where they can bang out their hate and frustration they will be tapping away.

“In contrast you have had a successful career, deservedly now elevated so you can have a crack at a big club with demanding expectations.

“You could not have had a more difficult start with no pre-season, an unbelievable injury list, an inflated squad with loads of new players from different countries to deal with.

“All proper Chelsea fans are willing you to succeed. Hang in there mate!

“Confidence is low at present - but if we can eventually catch a break, things can turn quickly. COYB!”

Vivek Goutham Kannan: “It’s absolutely sickening the kind of things you and your family have to read over the last days. We are all behind you Gaffer and eventhough the noise from the media, certain YouTubers and Twitter accounts suggest otherwise. I wish for nothing but happiness and peace for your children and family. We hope you can absolutely smash it this season and have a fantastic career at Chelsea in the years to come. KTBFFH.”

BP: “Graham - the messages will be mainly related to Chelsea, however this one will take a different note. It must be a tough time back home. Please remind yourself that the strength you are showing your family, notably your kids, will inspire them for a lifetime. Family will always have your back, and I hope that there will come a time where Chelsea will genuinely feel like your family. You are going to do amazing things, continue this belief! Persistence never loses!”

Anouj Patel: “The rational part of the fanbase (who, I think, remain the vast majority) want you to succeed at this great club. Some are all too quick to forget the sheer turmoil the club has experienced in the past 12 months, and that you were willing to join us to steady the ship and help navigate us through choppy and unchartered waters. Perhaps more importantly, some have forgotten that they - and you - are human beings as well as football fans. It is to your great credit that you have spoken openly about the human aspect of the job where others in your position dare not.

“Nothing can justify the vitriol and abuse that you and your family have received. It is shameful, and a pity that society contains individuals who think that that is acceptable. You have held yourself well in front of the media despite it all. Yes, recent results have been sub-optimal. But, like the majority, I firmly believe you have it within you to lead Chelsea's men's team through this difficult period and across to the other side. While the dug-out can sometimes feel like a lonely place, we, as Chelsea fans and empathetic humans, are behind you all the way.”

GVR: “We may be going through a tough period, but the fans are behind you fully to succeed at our club. The words and actions of the vocal minority are horrible and nobody should be subjected to that. However please know we support you, your staff and the team! All we want is our club back competing and winning trophies. This won't happen overnight and there will be ups and downs as the foundations are laid, but know you have the support of fans to see this through! Keep going and never give up. Wishing you all the best!”

Andrew Kinsella: “Obviously this has been a tough season to watch but i think I can speak for most of us on here when I say that we can see progress, just getting the ball in the net seems to be the only issue!! But I can say I have faith that this will turn around and I so want you to succeed at our club. The messages you've received as well don't represent true Chelsea fans. We can have our disagreements but threats of that kind don't represent the fans!”

Mitch Cumstein: “Family is the most important. It is easier said than done to ignore abuse, especially when you are in such a prominent job, but please know that this abhorrent behaviour is not condoned by 99.999% of Chelsea fans. I wouldn’t even consider the scumbag who sent this email a human, let alone a fan.

“Keep your chin up and protect your family. Oh, and I’ve just put a small wager on CFC to win the CL, so you know what you have to do!”

Etienne: “Thank you Graham Potter for all that you do and the sacrifices you have made to manage our beautiful club.

“Always remain calm and level headed, this is what has got you this far.”

Anton Rizell: “We all understand that football is about results and that they haven’t gone our way lately, but keep going with your vision no matter what.

“I am from Sweden and my team here is Hammarby and we played your östersunds team in the opening game of the season in 2016, when you were newly promoted. I remember thinking that it would be a nice start to a season to play against a newly promoted team but 90 minutes later I don’t think I could have been more wrong.

“You had your team playing tiki taka in Hammarby’s penalty box at our home stadium. How it ended 1-1 I still don’t know. After the game I remember calling my dad who was at the game at both of us agreeing that we got away murder that game.

“What I am trying to say is you are an exceptionally competent coach, and that you should always believe in yourself and your philosophy. After all you took a group of Swedish misfits from division two in Sweden to beating Arsenal at the emirates while still staying true to your philosophy. I believe in you.”

Roger: “Although it is difficult, please ignore these disgusting messages from ignorant so-called fans. Proper Chelsea fans and supporters are fully behind you as manager and also looking forward to the future with you and the new owners. Life as a manager is never easy and many a couch follower (like myself) think we can do it better but obviously can't. We have no idea about what goes on behind the scenes and at Coham but on a match day we are excited and looking forward to the game, afterwards emotions run high but you should never ever have to face abuse especially towards your family. Stay strong.”

Rasmus Siden: “You know the saying, "tough times don't last, only tough people do" and I believe you wouldn't be in this position if that wasn't you.

“It might be a tough period right now but I sincerely believe you can create something special here.

“It won't be easy but when is anything in football easy?”

Rob Blake: “We all know what's going to happen a big turnaround -and at some point a huge Potter banner with some “harry potter “ magical connection, reference being held aloft in Matthew Harding end “potters magic hat”

“You have a connection with the fans all I ask is you stick with us !

“The true supporters are behind you to succeed and messages you've received from Keyboard warriors are moronic idiots but I can imagine the effects it's had on you and your family - the idiotic content posted etc

“Take these messages and read them as often and know we love the way you've handled yourself in a amongst such horrendous pressure and stress and back you and the Potter Family

“I can see momentum and positive turnaround and great football coming - you choose to take yourself out of your comfort zone and take a role to expand yourself and bring a new way to CFC which we appreciate

“Thanks for everything Keep rocking the smiles and humour because we are in this together.”

Umair: “Certainly we are not in the place where we should be but I really admire the work you have done at Brighton. I really want you to o succeed. Just keep working hard & do what you have to do. Take tough decisions where needed. Shut out those who abuse. As they say.. ‘tough times don’t last, tough people do!”

Eddie Diaz: “While our success on the pitch has not arrived YET, there is absolutely no reason we can turn it around and that comes down to the leadership you display. As difficult as it may be to ignore the toxic elements who purport to claim to support our fanbase, we want you to know those people don’t represent how we feel. There’s no reason any abuse of that nature should ever be directed to someone else.

“Please keep a positive attitude, continue to work with everyone at the club on and off the pitch to draw out their best, and we wish you and your family a safe and supportive environment. Keep that blue flag flying high!”

Ricky Norton: “Wishing you the best health to you and your family. We support everything your doing. These emails are from people who aren’t real fans. We will show you that we are the real fans and support all that is needed from you.”

Michael M: “Wow, I'm really impressed by these messages. Respect to everyone who's written one and Si for putting this together.

“I want to apologise to Graham for the disgusting messages he's received. Unfortunately there are people out there who claim to support Chelsea, but really just want to leech off moments of success, and show their true colours when things don't go the way they want. I'm sorry that these parasites contacted you.

“I and so many other supporters greatly appreciate the work you're putting in for this club. The circumstances have been as difficult as they could be. I'm excited to see where you can take us when the squad is settled, and the injury crisis is fully behind us. Best wishes to you and your family.”

Colin Davis: “We all might be disappointed with the results, but I want Graham(& his family) to know he has my full support and my patience for the long term project. In this world of instant gratification and success we easily seem to forget that 'Rome wasn't built in a day' and we are not just building a short term winning team, but a winning Chelsea Empire (all teams at all levels) with Graham and Emma as the Head Coaches of our 'prestige' teams. Graham, keep going and thank you for your dedication and persistence. Praying protection over you and your family. KTBFFH.”

Ravi: “First of all its so good to see you in good spirits after a tough week professionally and personally. I hope your family is also doing good. Football and Chelsea came into my life a tad late because I came from a small village in India with little exposure to sports. I still remember spending late nights and missing dates to watch Chelsea! I have been supporting Chelsea through all ups and downs and that’s what I like. The Journey!

“Not many can comprehend the journey you have been through from the 9th tier of English football to the pinnacle. Going to Swedish 4th tier with a young family and asking your wife to leave her business of 10 years is not easy. That takes courage and guts. You have taken a different path to reach this stage in your life and I am sure you have so much to share in your biography😀.

“Please know that the so called fans who sent you these messages and who are here for instant gratification, represent less than 0.1% of our fan base. For many reasons we know as a club that we are not where want to be at the moment. There are many of us who want you to succeed and want to see Chelsea not only win trophies but play good football (The Potter ball). As the saying goes, “tough times don’t last long but tough people do”. I am confident that you will turn this around and become a champion with Chelsea.”

Max: “Please don’t think that these “fans” are representative of true Chelsea supporters. Anyone who calls themselves a blue should be rooting for your success through thick and thin. For me personally I have now never wanted a Chelsea manager to succeed more. Wishing you and your family health and strength to get through something no one should ever have to deal with. And finally, let’s fuck up spurs and KTBFFH.”

Pete O: “Often lost in professional sports is the fact that it’s just entertainment, based on a game. Sure, it’s ok to get excited, even passionate about our football team. That’s what makes it entertaining! But this kind of vitriol is indicative of a problem not with the team or you sir, the manager. But with us. The “fans”. And we owe you an apology. We’re sorry. It is up to us to behave like civilized humans, and it appears we have failed to do so. Even those who threaten probably didn’t mean it. The rest of us wish you and your family and the team our best.”

Cameron Noonan: “When life’s many facets are analysed and under scrutiny, the only components of importance are health, mental wellbeing and family. It’s shameful that these elements have been threatened in recent times. An act that reflects only on the perpetrators’ own lack of humanity. Rest assured that in this case, the minority certainly doesn’t reflect the majority.

“You’re Chelsea, we’re Chelsea and we move together; as fans and as human beings.”

Ian Everett: “Firstly, thank you and credit to you for your professionalism since taking the job. If I was asked the type of questions you have been in interviews/press conferences I would lose it!

“Of course we are all disappointed of late, but that is just part of football that comes in highs and lows, there is no doubt that you feel the same. But we have faith in you and the team to turn it around and deliver going forward.

“Unfortunately social media at times is a cesspit where “keyboard warriors” who hide behind their screen think it’s acceptable to abuse people. Although difficult, I hope you and your family are able to ignore these vile messages. This isn’t a case of “not genuine fans”, this is a case of horrible people who get their kicks abusing others.

“I hope things turnaround and you are a massive success at this fantastic club that is loved by all of us. Keep grafting and things will come good soon.”

Dimitri Digbeu: “It is beyond words the level of shame and pain that mix to describe these events and the abhorrent words sent towards you and your family. No matter the reason, this is reprehensible and a disgrace to the many of us who truly want you to succeed here, Graham. I can say personally how proud I am to have a man of composure, tact, steadiness and grace representing the club as manager. It takes a certain strength of character to uphold those standards, particularly during one of the most turbulent seasons in club memory.

“One thing I can truly say, is this will only fuel the joy and gratification I will feel once we emerge out of this dark spell, and you are at the helm of the success we dream of. COYB.”

Khanyisa: “Of course it's not an ideal situation for the club to be in. I admire your balls of steel by taking the Chelsea job at one of the club's most uncertain times.

“I felt sick, concerned & disgusted when I found out that our poor run of form has negatively affected your family - for that I'm deeply sorry. Unfortunately, in this world we live in there are vile individuals - screw them they aren't true Chelsea supporters.

“I'm one of those who FULLY back you because I can see the vision. Change has been needed at this club for so long, those who know, know. Chelsea has not been stable for so long - one minute we're winning UCLs, the next we're scrapping for top 4 till matchday 38. It just goes to show how fragile we've been & having GOOD MOMENTS for years then quick to fall off. We've needed this revolution & project. I wouldn't want anybody else to be at the wheel besides yourself. It will get better. My tin hat is on, get yours out, gaffer.”

Minh Quan Dao Nguyen: “Chelsea Football Club is one of the biggest things in my life and it has saved me so many times - now to think that the same thing is causing you so much stress to the extent you are really hurts me. You are the manager of Chelsea and you have our full backing and I know that given time and patience you can succeed. Keep working hard, keep pushing the boys and I have full faith that it will all come together!”

Tog1989: “Hi Graham, I just want to say you have my full support as a fan. Please don’t let the negativity get you down or the lads too. Things aren’t going so well at the moment but we’re all in this together, we can come through this and get on a roll and become champions of Europe again. Keep going, keep positive and always remember to keep the blue flag flying high.”

And finally, from myself, Simon Phillips: Graham, there is never an excuse for anyone to have sent you and your family wishes of death. But please know, and as you can see from the above, the majority of the Chelsea fans would not ever dream of treating a human being this way, and we are supporting you through this. We all know, you included, that results need to improve, but many of us hold a belief they will, and a belief in you still. UTC!

Simon Phillips