(Credit: Imago)

Jacob Raw

Sat 14 February 2026 16:05, UK

Freddie Potts is now set to serve a three-game suspension for West Ham after his sending off against Burton Albion at Pirelli Stadium on Saturday.

The Hammers were dragged into extra time of their FA Cup fourth-round tie after a poor showing through 90 minutes, where Crysencio Summerville was able to net the winner off the bench.

But Nuno Espirito Santo had to watch his side battle through the rest of extra time with 10 men after Potts‘ sending off for a challenge on Burton’s Julian Larsson.

Referee Lewis Smith deemed the midfielder’s challenge to be serious foul play, despite some people’s suggestions that it was a genuine attempt to win the ball.

• Read more: Soungoutou Magassa embarrasses, Adama Traore electric – West Ham player ratings vs Burton Albion

Every game that Freddie Potts will miss for West Ham

Potts has been a revelation when he has played under Nuno, but after his playing chances have seemingly decreased in recent matches, he could now be out of luck.

The West Ham academy graduate came on for Keiber Lamadrid in the 71st minute, and his sending off in the 101st minute was a career first.

Games Potts will now miss:

• West Ham vs Bournemouth: 21 Feb
• Liverpool vs West Ham: 28 Feb
• Fulham vs West Ham: 4 Mar

Due to the next round of the FA Cup not taking place until the weekend of the 7th to 8th of March, Potts will miss the Hammers’ next three Premier League games.

It may not come as big of as blow to Nuno, because he has been opting for more experienced options over the last couple of games.

But the truth is that the Irons are in a relegation battle, and the West Ham boss will need everyone available for the run-in.

• Read more: Keith Hackett reacts to West Ham penalty controversy vs Burton Albion after footage emerges

What West Ham’s stats against Burton Albion broke down for Nuno

It’s fair to say that until Nuno brought on the likes of Summerville and Taty Castellanos, the Hammers had nothing going forward.

Adama Traore was proving to be a tricky customer for the Brewers, but apart from that, there was no penetration from what is West Ham’s backup attack.

Creating just over a single goal in expected goals against a League One side is quite embarrassing. Yes, it was a rotated side, but they are supposed to be Premier League players.

Nuno really needs to wrap some of his key players in cotton wool, otherwise injuries could be what takes the Irons down to the Championship in the end.

For more tactical insight and updates on West Ham, head to Football Insider to check out the latest on Nuno’s side.