West Ham appointment ‘a bit like Christmas’ — Graham Potter

Graham Potter has described his appointment as West Ham manager as “a bit like Christmas, Christmas for the adults.”

Potter also said he is looking forward to a “big challenge” after being confirmed as the new West Ham manager.

The 49-year-old has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the London club, who sacked Julen Lopetegui on Wednesday after six months in charge.

“It’s a proud day to be head coach of this amazing club, big tradition, big history, big expectations, big challenge.

“I’m really excited, it’s a bit like Christmas – Christmas for the adults.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the players today, meeting our supporters and getting going,” Potter said.

Potter takes over with the Hammers 14th in the Premier League – seven points above the relegation zone – with just six league wins to their name.

It is his first managerial position since being dismissed by Chelsea in April 2023.

He added, “It’s been 20 months of a good rest, a good break and you can imagine in that time you speak to lots of people. Lots of conversations with different owners and different directors.

“But it was important that I chose the right option for me at the right time and as soon as I spoke to this club, it just felt right for me.

“It’s an amazing club with a tremendous, loyal fanbase that is passionate, knowledgeable and knows their football and what they want. I think it’s a good fit.

“My experience is that if you can build a team that is recognisable on the pitch, that the supporters identify with, are proud of and enjoy watching and you get that trust and connection between the players and the supporters, with everybody aligned, that’s the key.”

Potter’s first assignment will be West Ham’s FA Cup third-round tie at Aston Villa on Friday before they return to Premier League action at home to Fulham on Tuesday.

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