Graham Potter believes West Ham are “hurting” but not far from finding form again as pressure mounts on the Hammers boss after a miserable start to the season.
Defeats against Sunderland and Chelsea in the Premier League, coupled with an early Carabao Cup exit at Wolves, have left supporters frustrated and the manager under scrutiny. Yet Potter struck a defiant tone ahead of Sunday’s clash with Nottingham Forest, insisting his side are close to a breakthrough.
“I don’t think it’s about reassurances. I’m an experienced manager, I try my best and it’s my job to help the players,” Potter said.
“We’re all hurting, because the pre-season was encouraging. We lost at Sunderland and against Chelsea, and we’re not shying away from the fact that things haven’t been good. At the same time, I don’t think we’re far from a performance and a result that gets things on a good path.”
New Signing Brings Hope
West Ham confirmed the £40m signing of Mateus Fernandes from Southampton on Friday, a deal Potter believes gives his squad a “different dimension.” The 21-year-old midfielder signed a five-year contract and has already spoken of his excitement at moving to east London.
“It’s a big step for me. It’s a big club, a massive club,” Fernandes said. “The project, the stadium, the city, everything. I want to try to play football, enjoy football, not just run and try to score, but try to play good football. The most important thing is to try to give everything every day.”
Potter described Fernandes as a player of “maturity and character” and hinted more additions could follow before the window closes. “You never know what’s going to happen,” he added. “It’ll be one of those windows with a lot of late activity. We’ll always look until the end to make sure we’re aligned and make the right calls.”
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William says Fernandes’ arrival gives Potter a lifeline:
“Potter desperately needed fresh energy and Fernandes can provide that. He’s technical, progressive on the ball, and adds balance to a midfield that has looked flat. The challenge is results — West Ham need wins quickly or no signing will change the atmosphere.”
Key Insights
- West Ham lose first two Premier League games and exit Carabao Cup at Wolves.
- Graham Potter admits squad are “hurting” but says team are close to form.
- Mateus Fernandes joins from Southampton for £40m, signing a five-year deal.
- Potter hints more transfer activity possible before the deadline.
- Nottingham Forest away next in the Premier League.
What’s Next for West Ham?
Potter takes his side to the City Ground on Sunday to face Nottingham Forest, a game that already feels crucial for his tenure. A third consecutive league defeat would plunge West Ham to the bottom of the table and amplify questions about his future.
Behind the scenes, the club are monitoring the transfer market for late opportunities. With Fernandes secured, West Ham may still look to add a defensive reinforcement before the deadline. A poor result at Forest, however, could shift the focus away from recruitment and onto Potter’s job security.
Should West Ham keep faith in Graham Potter — or is it already crunch time in east London?
Key Insights
West Ham lose first two Premier League games and exit Carabao Cup at Wolves.Graham Potter admits squad are “hurting” but says team are close to form.Mateus Fernandes joins from Southampton for £40m, signing a five-year deal.Potter hints more transfer activity possible before the deadline.Nottingham Forest away next in the Premier League.
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