West Ham manager Graham Potter will have felt the sting of criticism following the Hammers’ 1-0 defeat to Newcastle.
That much was clear from his spiky response to journalists after the game when he said, “I apologise if things aren’t happening quicker.”
It’s always tough for losing managers to face post-match interviews, but behind Potter’s frustration, he’ll know he got it wrong.
He’ll also be acutely aware of the importance of getting one over former Irons boss David Moyes in Saturday’s 3pm clash between Everton and West Ham. Moyes enjoyed the kind of start at Goodison Park that Potter could only have dreamed of when he took over from Julen Lopetegui.
After managing Chelsea, Potter will be used to media scrutiny, but I do wonder if he’s been surprised by the sheer number of column inches West Ham generates.
The new Hammers boss will know that all eyes will be on this fixture, with the narrative inevitably focused on Moyes vs Potter rather than Everton vs West Ham.
That’s understandable, and while the full media glare is yet to hit the fixture, no doubt the likes of Chris Sutton, Richard Keys, and Paul Merson will be rubbing their hands in anticipation of a Moyes victory.
However, Potter is a smart tactician and had a strong record against the Scotsman while managing Brighton. I suspect he’ll have something up his sleeve for this one and doubt he’ll stick with the same line-up that struggled so badly against Newcastle.
Most see this as a nailed-on Everton win, but personally, I’m not so sure
Hmm. Potter’s response to the journalist didn’t seem that spiky. Its all a tad subjective methinks.
I don’t want to be negative
But think he will set up not to lose the same as the Newcastle game
Everton boss Moyes has, however, never won in seven Premier League meetings with Potter (D5 L2)