Graham Potter Newcastle United press conference – What he’s said ahead of Monday’s match | OneFootball

The Graham Potter Newcastle United press conference has taken place.

The West Ham boss talking on Friday ahead of Monday night’s game.

Only two months into the job, the Hammers manager looking to make a success of his return to football.

Graham Potter spending almost two years out of football after Chelsea sacked him.

Official Hammers site reporting on the Graham Potter Newcastle United press conference – 7 March 2025:

“I don’t think there’s a good or bad time to play anybody.

“You look at the table and Newcastle United are doing well, and they’ll be wanting to prepare for their cup final with a win.

“They’re not fighting for the Champions League for nothing.”

Graham Potter asked about Eddie Howe:

“I’m good friends with one of his staff but I only know him from playing against him and being managers.

“But I have huge respect for him for what he’s done in the game and I think the job he’s done at Newcastle speaks for itself.”

Graham Potter asked about whether he spoke to Eddie Howe during his managerial break:

“I was aware of what Eddie’s done and I think it’s typical of football in some ways. I think when Eddie left Bournemouth, he maybe recognised he needed a break.

“Then you have to go to work again and I think what he’s done at Newcastle is brilliant.

“People might change their minds of people but Eddie is someone to look up to, for a variety of reasons.”

Graham Potter asked about Lucas Paquetá:

“He’s fine. He’s been disappointed because he’s missed games with injury, but he’s worked hard and trained well this week. I’ve found him no problem whatsoever, and he’s been really good.

“He’s been with the group and given everything in the games he’s played. He’s done everything he needs to do and he’s available again.”

Graham Potter asked about the two wins in a row after only having had one win (and four defeats) in his first six matches at West Ham:

“As I’ve always said the players have responded to us well and worked hard.

“We’re doing well but we’re a work in progress and there are still things to improve.”

Graham Potter asked about Jarrod Bowen:

“Jarrod’s been fantastic.

“When you have a number of weeks off, it’s hard to expect you to be at your top, top form. He’s been great, but there’s still room for him to improve, and that’s exciting.

“It’s credit to him and how he’s worked in rehab as to how good he’s been since he came back, and yeah we’ve been delighted with him.”