Former Chelsea boss Graham Potter declared that he was “open” to the prospect of joining either Manchester United or England, 17 months on from his Stamford Bridge sacking.
Potter has purposefully stayed out of the footballing world after a difficult spell with the Blues, but continues to be linked with top jobs after earning a stellar reputation from his time with Brighton and Swansea.
He worked closely with United sporting director Dan Ashworth while the pair were together at Brighton, and regularly is one of the names mentioned when Erik ten Hag is under pressure at Old Trafford.
On his return to the limelight with Sky Sports, he was directly asked about the possibility of leading his country and stepping into Gareth Southgate’s shoes, to which he replied: “I think it’s time for a commercial break! As an Englishman, of course it’s a fantastic job and I am supportive of whatever The FA decide to do.”
He then gave seven telling words when asked if he would prefer a return to club management, saying: “I am open to anything and everything.”
Potter also denied speaking with Ashworth about replacing Erik ten Hag, who continues to come under pressure following a 3-0 defeat at home to Tottenham. “I take what the media say with a pinch of salt,” Potter explained. “A lot of it is untrue and false. I have a lot of conversations with a lot of people. It’s best I keep them private.
“I can’t believe I’m the only coach in the world linked with both Stoke City and Napoli in the same week! Out of respect for everyone involved, I think it’s best to keep the details private.”
Potter denied the idea that coaching United was an ‘impossible job’ as a result of the immense media scrutiny placed on the team and head coach, while also giving an insight into how their new sporting director operates.
“Dan will want to support and help,” he explained. “That’s my experience working with him. He was very supportive at Brighton. He would challenge at the right time, but want to help.”
Potter remains one of the candidates that the FA will consider as they take their time replacing Southgate, with Lee Carsley temporarily handed the reigns in an interim role.
The former Under-21s boss began his audition with 2-0 wins over his Ireland and Finland, but knows that big names such as Potter remain in the frame.
The likes of Eddie Howe, Frank Lampard and Kieran McKenna have also been mooted, with Potter also linked intensely with a position at United.
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