‘Interesting’ – Wayne Rooney speaks out after Graham Potter sack news at West Ham
Graham Potter’s job is hanging in the balance after West Ham’s 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace.
The former Chelsea boss has been under increasing pressure to get results in recent weeks after a run of conceding three or more goals in three of their five Premier League games.
Before the Palace game, West Ham fans protested against owner David Sullivan, with chants of “sack the board” soon turning into chants against Potter.
West Ham have already started lining up replacements for Potter, with Wayne Rooney the latest to react to the disruption surrounding the club.
Wayne Rooney expects ‘interesting 48 hours’ after West Ham’s defeat
Potter’s team selection for West Ham’s game against Crystal Palace didn’t cover him in glory, with James Ward-Prowse retaining his place in the side.
This was made worse when his decision not to substitute the 30-year-old was met with boos and chants of “you’re getting sacked in the morning”.
Reports have been circling throughout the week that West Ham have been speaking to candidates such as Nuno Espirito Santos, with BBC now confirming the news.
Managers linked with West Ham:
- Nuno Espirito Santos
- Gary O’Neil
- Slaven Bilic
- Kieran McKenna
- Sean Dyche
Speaking on the back of BBC Sport’s report claiming that West Ham have been eyeing replacements, Rooney gave his thoughts.
“It feels like, with the protests this week, that the fans want him out. It’s going to be an interesting 48 hours to see whether the board come out and back him or make a decision,” he said.
“There’s clearly a lack of confidence in the team. When confidence is low, it feels like the world is against you, and that’s where West Ham are at the minute.”
James Ward-Prowse to be out of new managers considerations
Should the Hammers replace Potter, Ward-Prowse is likely to play no further part at the London Stadium.
The midfielder was poor against the Eagles and allowed the visitors to easily transition between defence and attack.
Potter’s repeated selection of Ward-Prowse has been bizarre, especially when there are younger and hungrier players on the bench.
Freddie Potts wasn’t involved against Palace, and having turned down opportunities to move away, he will likely regret it.
Soungoutou Magassa has also yet to start a game, and surely he can’t be any worse than Ward-Prowse.
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