“He’s had to be patient but he’s been working hard in training” – Graham Potter lavishes praise on Chelsea star who ‘works hard for the team’ after win against Wolves
Chelsea manager Graham Potter has praised Armando Broja after the Albanian netted in the Blues' 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on October 8.
Broja came on as a substitute in the 72nd minute and scored his first goal in Chelsea colors in the 89th minute to wrap up a comfortable victory.
Broja received the ball on the edge of the box before unleashing a powerful effort past Jose Sa. He had to wait for his opportunity at Stamford Bridge as all his appearances have come from the bench so far.
Chelsea supporters will be hoping his goal against Wolves is the first of many and Potter lauded the forward following his exploits. He told BBC (via Chelsea Chronicle):
“Nice at the end for Armando to score. I’ve been here three or four weeks so taking no credit, great finish nice pass too and whenever he comes on he works hard for the team. He’s had to be patient but he’s been working hard in training and it’s nice for him to score."
The moment Armando Broja has been dreaming of his whole life. 🥹💙
First of many for this special player! ⭐️ https://t.co/1qflJIuJXe
Broja has risen up the youth ranks at Stamford Bridge and is now part of the senior squad. He spent loan spells at Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem and Premier League team Southampton.
He managed 11 goals and three assists in 34 appearances for Vitesse and nine goals and one assist in 38 appearances for the Saints.
Broja bides his time at Chelsea
Broja grabbed his first goal for Chelsea and the Albanian was elated following the victory over Wolves. He discussed his goal in detail before touching on working himself into Potter's side. On BBC Sport, Broja said:
"It's always a wait when they check for a possible offside. I was keeping my fingers crossed but I thought I had timed my run well.
"Thanks to the fans for the support. It’s unreal, I’ve been waiting for my first goal. It's a surreal moment. I can't put it into words. Onto Tuesday now. It was a good performance."
Broja continued:
"Everyone knows at one of the biggest clubs in the world there will be competition. It helps us all develop as players. We have a big squad, everyone is needed at all times."
Armando Broja: "It's just surreal" 🤩 @armandobroja9 is off the mark for Chelsea 👏
Watch live: bbc.in/3RKbyFl #BBCFootball https://t.co/Y1oFIqaSQ9
Chelsea are now fourth in the league with five wins, two defeats and a draw. They next face AC Milan on October 11 at the San Siro in the Champions League.
Potter's men will then head to Villa Park to take on Steven Gerrard's Aston Villa on October 16.
The Stamford Bridge faithful will be hoping they can keep the winning momentum going as they have won three and drawn one in four games under Potter.