Graham Potter brought new ideas to Wednesday night's Champions League clash against RB Salzburg, but the 1-1 home result felt just as disappointing as the ones Thomas Tuchel oversaw on his way out the door of Stamford Bridge.
Potter began his tenure by optimising the play of Raheem Sterling, who was dangerous throughout when bursting forwards and surprisingly adept tracking back like a quasi-wing-back. Sterling's performance level will be key to the manager's success, and early signs are positive. The England international scored the opener, Blues fans roaring with approval when he nestled in a curling shot minutes after the half-time interval.
But longstanding problems also cropped up as Chelsea lacked a clinical edge in front of goal and, crucially, endured a defensive lapse in concentration that cost them three points as Noah Okafor equalised late.
Chelsea are still waiting for their first Champions League win this season. They haven't yet faced AC Milan, their chief rival in the group. It's probably too early to be worried about their chances of advancing to the knockout rounds, but Potter needs to lead improvement soon.
