Graham Potter appointment: West Ham doubts emerge already after talks

Chris Sutton has questioned why Graham Potter would potentially become the new West Ham United manager on a short-term basis.

The pundit can’t comprehend the Englishman signing a short contract, with the Hammers reportedly offering him a six-month deal [The Telegraph, 5 December].

Julen Lopetegui is all but certain to be sacked at the Irons, with the former Brighton boss being offered the hot seat at the London Stadium [The Times, 6 January].

Speaking on BBC 5 Live’s The Monday Night Club (6 January), Sutton said: “Why would Potter take the job on a short-term basis to the end of the season? That doesn’t make any sense to me. Why would he put himself in that situation, an underperforming team?

“He may make a marginal improvement, but it’s not a group of players where you’d suggest he’s going to get them into European spots. So why on earth would he do that deal?”

Graham Potter perfect replacement for Julen Lopetegui at West Ham

Potter will definitely have a big job on his hands if and when he finally makes his way to East London.

David Moyes did a decent job at the Hammers, winning the Europa Conference League title, but the fans weren’t too keen on his style of play.

Lopetegui’s arrival was met with mixed emotions among supporters, but he was backed, and Tim Steidten made quality additions to the squad in the summer transfer window.

West Ham have struggled to compete for anything meaningful under the Spaniard and find themselves 14th in the Premier League table after losing 4-1 to Manchester City.

Julen Lopetegui
Julen Lopetegui [Credit: Imago]

The London Stadium faithful have already expressed their displeasure with the former Wolves manager, calling for his sacking at the King Power Stadium.

Potter didn’t enjoy the best of times at Chelsea and was relieved of his duties after a few months in charge.

Although the Englishman’s recent record isn’t encouraging, his work at Brighton proves that the East London club could be getting a quality manager, even if it’s on a short-term basis.

In other West Ham news, an agreement has been reached with Potter ahead of his anticipated arrival.

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