The Football Faithful
·1. Oktober 2024
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Yahoo sportsThe Football Faithful
·1. Oktober 2024
Graham Potter says he is “open to everything” as he plots his return to football management amid links with the England and Manchester United jobs.
The 49-year-old has been out of work since April 2023 when he was sacked by Chelsea having won just 12 of his 31 games in charge of the west London outfit.
Erik ten Hag is under increasing pressure at Man Utd following a 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend. Potter was one of the names linked with the club when the hierarchy were looking at possible replacements in the summer, before deciding to renew the Dutchman’s contract.
Speaking to Sky Sports on Monday Night Football, the former Brighton boss swerved a question about whether he had spoken to United about possibly taking over.
“I am the only coach in world football to be linked with Stoke City and Napoli in the same week,” he said.
“A lot of what I’ve read in the media is untrue and false. I take what the media say with a pinch of salt. I’ve had lots of conversations with lots of people. For the respect of everybody, it’s best I keep it private.
“I don’t think anything is impossible but jobs are difficult. That’s the reality of life in the Premier League. If you’re a big club like Manchester United and you’re not in the top six, then there’s always going to be scrutiny.”
Potter has also been mentioned in relation to the England job. The FA are currently looking for a permanent successor to Gareth Southgate, who stepped down after Euro 2024. Lee Carsley is currently the interim manager while the search is ongoing.
“As an Englishman, it is a fantastic job but I’m supportive for whatever the FA decide to do and whoever the coach is,” he said.
“I think Gareth did a fantastic job and I’m sure Lee will in his time in the role for as long as that is. He’ll do really well.”
Asked if he would prefer to work in international football or return to the club game, Potter responded: “I’m open to anything, to be honest.
“I’ve had a fantastic journey over the last 12 years from the fourth tier of Swedish football to the last eight of the Champions League and I would like to spend the next 12 years in the same position, developing players, teams, working with people and making a difference.
“Wherever that is, I’m open to everything.”
He added: “I know my ability and know what I can do. It has to be the right opportunity and has to be the right thing for me.”