Chelsea boss Graham Potter has rejected criticism of Raheem Sterling.

Sterling is without a goal or assist in the past five matches.

"It's something we have to look at not by zooming into one person but as a team," said Potter.

"We can do better but if we do better as a team then individuals will benefit from that so that's where the work is.

"Raheem has the flexibility, ability and quality to play in a number of positions. It's not straightforward with us losing the players we have so we're trying to constantly find the right balance and the right solutions but he can help us in a number of positions."

Potter has admitted that the World Cup will inevitably become a factor in the subconscious over coming weeks, even if the players remain committed to club matters.

"I don't think it affects their performances, they're fully focused but they're also human beings so somewhere subconsciously you're thinking that in three weeks' time there's a World Cup," he added.

"I guess because of how close it is after the games finish, normally you would have a build-up phase and a bit more time but we're going from competition phase to playing the World Cup within a week.

"It's incredible how it is but we can't do anything about it. We just have to help the players as best we can and make sure they're not in dangerous situations for their own health."