Graham Potter Confirms Interest in Surprise Job After West Ham Sacking

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Graham Potter Confirms Interest in Surprise Job After West Ham Sacking

It didn't take long for Potter to comment on the now-vacant position.

Graham Potter says he would be interested in taking a "fantastic opportunity" that has recently become available.

The 50-year-old, who was sacked by West Ham in September following their poor start to the Premier League campaign, has already reacted to Sweden's decision to part ways with Jon Dahl Tomasson.

Sweden's chances of reaching the World Cup via qualifying are slim following their 1-0 defeat to Kosovo on Monday.

But with the country sitting bottom of their Group B with just one point from four games, former Chelsea and Brighton boss Potter has expressed his interest in becoming the national team manager.

Speaking to Fotbollskanalen on Tuesday, he said: "I just heard the news (about Dahl Tomasson). It's sad, of course, but yes. I'm actually in Sweden right now, in my house in Sweden. I'm between jobs and just left the Premier League."

"I'm open to anything, really, where I feel I can help," he added. "The job as national team captain for the Swedish national team is fantastic. I have feelings for Sweden. I love the country and I love Swedish football. I have a lot to be grateful for towards Swedish football. So yes, it would be a fantastic opportunity for me. Of course."

Asked if he's spoken to the Swedish federation, Potter simply replied: "No".

Potter, who managed in Sweden for years, leading Ostersunds FK from the fourth tier to the top flight between 2011 and 2018, was then asked whether he is "expecting a call" from the federation.

"No. I have no expectations," he said. "I'm sure they will do their job and see what's best for Swedish football."

He added: "From the outside I wish them all the best. Because I have enormous respect for Sweden and Swedish football. I've worked in the country for seven years and spent a lot of time in different parts of the country."

Jon Dahl Tomasson, meanwhile, was appointed Sweden manager in February last year. He recorded nine wins in 18 games.

Jon Dahl Tomasson has been sacked by Sweden. Image credit: Getty
Jon Dahl Tomasson has been sacked by Sweden. Image credit: Getty

The former Blackburn manager did not hold back after their home defeat to Kosovo on Monday. "It's not good enough and it's a terrible result. It really hurts, we forgot how to score goals and I don't know why," he said.

Sweden release strongly-worded statement confirming Jon Dahl Tomasson departure

A statement reads: "The Swedish Football Association's board has made the decision to terminate Jon Dahl Tomasson's appointment as national team manager. The decision is based on a lack of results in the World Cup qualifiers.

"The decision taken by the Swedish Football Association is based on the fact that the men's national team has not delivered the results we hoped for. There is still a chance for a playoff in March and our responsibility is to ensure that we have the best possible conditions to be able to reach a World Cup final."

Featured Image Credit: Getty Images

Topics: Graham Potter, Premier League, Chelsea, West Ham