Graham Potter supports Erik ten Hag’s choice to drop Cristiano Ronaldo

Graham Potter says managers must make decisions in the best interests of their group, even if they come back to haunt them as he prepares for a Cristiano Ronaldo-less Manchester United.

Potter’s Chelsea don’t have to worry about Ronaldo after Ten Hag cut the Portuguese superstar from his roster after the 37-year-old stormed through the tunnel and left Old Trafford before the end of United’s midweek win over Tottenham.

Ronaldo also refused to act as a sub for his walk-off noose and has paid the price after Ten Hag objected to his public expression of dissent.

The Portuguese attacker went into the tunnel early in United’s 2-0 win against Tottenham

Potter said: ‘[Ten Hag] has taken its stand and sometimes you have to and the club has taken its support.

“I don’t know the whole story so it would be difficult for me to comment fully, but from a philosophical perspective sometimes you have to make a decision that you think is in the best interest of the group and the culture and environment that you want and there can be a short-term consequence and there is a consequence that can come back to you, but if you think this is the right thing to do, you should do it.”

Potter has repeatedly rejected suggestions that he faces a new challenge since becoming Chelsea head coach in dealing with players with big egos.

And he joked that even if they did, at least their ability would be some form of compensation.

Ten Hag climbed Manchester United to fifth place in the Premier League, one point behind Chelsea

Undefeated Potter leads Chelsea against the Red Devils at Stamford Bridge on Saturday

Former Ostersund manager Potter said: “It’s a fascinating conversation to have because six weeks ago the story would have been that I had no experience dealing with these huge egos, these guys walking around with all these complex issues.

‘But my experience is that everyone has it to some degree. In any case, these guys can play football at a good level. It’s not that easy in the fourth division of Swedish football, I can tell you.’

United’s tea visit to Stamford Bridge will be the biggest Premier League test yet for Potter, who is unbeaten in his seven games in all competitions so far.

He added: “It gives us a good bit of information about where we are, where we need to go and that’s normal, so we’re really looking forward to that.”