Henry Winter reacts immediately as Potter announcement made at West Ham
Graham Potter will need time to make his magic work at West Ham United, according to Henry Winter.
Reacting to Irons announcing Potter as their new head coach on Thursday (9 January), the journalist described the decision to give him a two-and-a-half-year contract as “sensible”.
Winter, felt Julen Lopetegui was a “strange” fit at the London Stadium, also described the former Chelsea boss as a “fireman”, stressing the need to be patient with him, but suggested that the good players at his disposal may help him make an instant impact.
“Good luck to Graham Potter at West Ham United”, Winter wrote on X (9 January).
“Good appointment. Two-and-a-half-year deal, sensible length.
“Potter’s a builder not a fireman, he’ll need time. But there are good players at West Ham.
“He’s joined by Bruno, Billy Reid and Narcís Pèlach.”
Graham Potter to lead West Ham v Aston Villa
The Hammers announced their decision to relieve Julen Lopetegui of their duties on Wednesday, 8 January.
They have wasted little time in naming his replacement, with Potter already expected to take charge of the squad for their FA Cup clash with Aston Villa on Friday, 10 January.
Having resolved the manager situation quickly, the East London outfit can now turn their attention back towards the January transfer window.
West Ham promised Potter that he will have money to spend on new signings this month during discussions, although they are likely to prioritise loan deals [The Times].
Signing a new striker and a midfielder appears to be high on their agenda.
Meanwhile, it remains to be seen if Tim Steidten, who was staying away from Rush Green after tensions with Lopetegui boiled over, will come back into the fray.
The technical director was heavily involved in the Irons’ recruitment drive in the summer, but did not play a significant role in talks to bring Potter to the London Stadium.
There are suggestions that he too may be relieved of his duties amid doubts over his transfer record [The Guardian].
In other West Ham news, Jarrod Bowen has sent a message to Lopetegui after his sacking was confirmed.
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