Kai Havertz says the last few weeks have been “tough” for Chelsea after his header earned a narrow victory over Crystal Palace to ease the pressure on manager Graham Potter.

Havertz met Hakim Ziyech’s cross shortly after the hour as the Blues ended a run of three successive defeats in all competitions.

“The last few weeks were tough. For everyone at the club, it is not easy under these circumstances,” said the 23-year-old.

“A lot of things changed this year. We have so many injuries. Today we had five young players in the starting XI, they are doing a really good job at the moment.”

The Germany striker should have doubled Chelsea’s advantage but could only flash a header wide from close range from Mason Mount’s cross.

Palace came close to equalising late on when Cheick Doucoure’s long-range volley was spectacularly tipped over by Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Chelsea stay 10th despite the win, just their second in 10 Premier League games, but are now level on points with ninth-placed Liverpool.

Palace are 12th after a fifth defeat in six games in all competitions.