Graham Potter believes that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could still have a role to play for Chelsea this season despite speculation linking the Blues forward away from the club. The 33-year-old was left on the bench as Chelsea looked to salvage a point against Fulham with Potter utilising four substitutes with 10 minutes remaining.
Chelsea's summer signing came off the bench against Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest and Man City but was replaced in the latter game after 63 minutes on the pitch. He then missed the FA Cup clash against the same opponents with a back issue.
The former Arsenal striker has already played for two clubs this season so has limited options if he sees his future elsewhere. Aubameyang will only be able to feature for clubs who begin their 2023 season, such as an MLS side. La Liga rules even prevent a return to Barcelona.
READ MORE: Chelsea make Harvey Vale loan transfer decision amid Graham Potter injury crisis
Potter suggested that his decision to leave Aubameyang on the bench at Craven Cottage was tactical. Ahead of Crystal Palace, the Blues boss noted he believes his charge still has something to offer.
Potter said: “Yes, he is here. He had a problem with his back after Manchester City. That’s why he was absent against Man City [in the FA Cup]. We just went for Kai [against Fulham]. Pierre is in our squad and he is important for us. I am pretty sure he can help us going forward.”
Chelsea's head coach further noted that there is no chance Christian Pulisic leaves the club this month following the injury he suffered in the Premier League clash against Manchester City. Pulisic has been ruled out for two months.
Potter said a transfer for Pulisic was not under consideration before the American's setback.
He said: “No chance, no, he will be out past that and there was never any consideration about him leaving anyway. He is a couple of months out. He is disappointed but he is optimistic about coming back quicker than two months. He is in that phase where he is keeping his fingers crossed and hoping his rehab goes well.”
READ NEXT:
Four things learned as Joao Felix debut exposes brutal Chelsea realities in defeat to Fulham
Chelsea player ratings vs Fulham as Joao Felix spoils debut, Mason Mount and Kepa struggle
Every word Graham Potter said on Joao Felix red card, Zakaria injury, Chelsea supporters' anger
Graham Potter gives honest verdict on Joao Felix red card in Chelsea defeat to Fulham
Fulham vs Chelsea highlights: Joao Felix red card, Carlos Vinicius hands Blues defeat
