Freddie Potts to push for West Ham starting spot amid exciting development
Freddie Potts could be in line for a starting role at West Ham after he returns from Portsmouth in the summer.
The 21-year-old departed the London Stadium temporarily in August 2024 and has gone on to be an integral part of the puzzle at Pompey.
The Championship outfit have maintained a place in the division in their first year back since earning promotion last campaign.
John Mousinho certainly has Potts to thank, in part, in a season which is bound to leave Graham Potter licking his lips ahead of the new season.
Potts could become West Ham starter after Portsmouth loan
There is very little positive feeling around the London Stadium right now after the defeat against Brighton on Saturday (26 April).
As a result, the summer is going to represent a hugely important period of time for the Irons as the English head coach looks to overhaul his squad.
Even if new signings are being considered, Potts may represent a readymade option for the E20 side after an excellent season in the second tier.
| Stat (Championship 24/25) | Freddie Potts |
| Appearances | 35 |
| Chances created | 33 |
| Tackles won | 35 |
The Englishman has featured regularly at Fratton Park and has truly come into his own as survival has been achieved by the south coast club.
As a result, former Hammers midfielder and Brentford manager Martin Allen believes the youngster could have a spot on Potter’s side ahead of the summer.
Speaking to Pompey News (26 April), he said: “Yeah, I’d like to see more of Freddie Potts, he’s a good player.
“He’s come from a good footballing stock with his dad Steve Potts, who was an excellent player for West Ham.
“Freddie has done really well at Portsmouth, there’s no doubt about that.
“I’m sure that if he does train through the summer, he’ll get himself in a good place to be under starters’ orders when the squad is ready for pre-season training.”
West Ham must trust Potts next season
The Irons are certainly in a rough patch of form right now, and things need to change before next season becomes hugely difficult.
If Potter continues this run of form, his job could be on the line, and the Hammers could face relegation from the Premier League.
Starting fresh could prove to be a wise move, especially with talented youngsters like Potts, George Earthy and Lewis Orford set to be available next campaign.
This could prove to be the perfect chance for the former Chelsea head coach to trust the academy talents, especially if someone like Tomas Soucek leaves in the summer.
It will be interesting to see if the Portsmouth loanee is given a chance in the Premier League, but there’s no doubt he’ll be missed at Fratton Park.