CHELSEA and Todd Boehly have reportedly admitted in secret that firing Thomas Tuchel was a mistake.

And they still believe sacked successor Graham Potter can shine at a top Premier League club.

Chelsea axed popular gaffer Tuchel in September after a clash of personalities.

They quickly moved for Brighton boss Potter, handing the Englishman a five-year deal.

But Chelsea’s form took a dismal dive and Potter was shown the door in April.

According to the Mail, Chelsea chiefs including Boehly now acknowledge they made a mistake in sacking Tuchel.

Although it was clear the German was not the right man to take their project forward, it’s now believed Tuchel should have been given the rest of the season to allow a smoother handover to a new boss this summer.

As for Potter, Chelsea also acknowledge they paid over the odds for his signature after handing over a world-record £21.5million to Brighton.

But despite his shortcomings at Stamford Bridge, Boehly and Co still feel Potter had the qualities to succeed.

And they will not be surprised if he goes on to greater things at another top English side.

For now, Chelsea are looking to the future after agreeing a three-year deal with ex-Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino.

The Argentine has finally struck terms after weeks of negotiations.

And his arrival is expected to be confirmed this week, although interim Frank Lampard will remain at the helm for Chelsea’s final three matches.

Poch is expected to see a massive overhaul of the Blues’ squad — with most of those being departures.

But he would like to bring in a top-class striker and goalie, as well as a new No6.

SOURCE: thesun.co.uk