Graham Potter says he is “ready to return to management” after being linked with the vacant England manager’s role.
Potter has been out of work since being sacked by Chelsea in April 2023 but says he has been in contact with a number of clubs since then.
The former Blues, Brighton and Swansea boss has been named as one of the favourites to succeed Gareth Southgate following his decision to step down from the Three Lions.
But when asked about the vacancy, the 49-year-old stopped short of declaring his interest in the position, though he did reserve praise for Southgate, who left days after guiding England to the European Championship final for the second time.
“Today is not the day to speak about [the England vacancy],” Potter told Sky Sports News as he was awarded an honorary doctorate at Leeds Beckett University.
“I’m proud of the job Gareth Southgate did. As an Englishman in football, I don’t think there’s anybody who has more respect than he has, how he conducted himself, him and his staff, qualifying for tournaments, going deep into tournaments, getting the country behind the team, he’s done an amazing job.
“I’d like to wish him well, I hope he has a nice break, and wish him well for whatever he decides to do next.”
“I’m very proud of the job Gareth Southgate did” 👏
Graham Potter has wished Gareth Southgate well after leaving the England Job 🏴 pic.twitter.com/exuWmkNO8k
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) July 18, 2024
Potter has revealed the effect his unconventional rise to the top, which involed going from Sweden with FK Ostersunds to Stamford Bridge via Swansea and Brighton, has taken his on him and his family and why he wants to make sure his next role is the right one.
Recent reports suggest Potter is still being paid £200,000-per-week by Chelsea despite being sacked over a year ago and will continue to do so until October.
He added: “I spoke to lots of teams and lots of clubs but it was recognising that journey [he had been on as a coach] was a long journey, a tough journey.
“Unless the right opportunity came along I wasn’t rushing to go back into football. It had to be right for me.
“I’ve had a great break. The journey from where I started to where I finished doesn’t come for free. Moving three countries, with a young family and all that comes with being a football manager.
“It was important for me to take a break, reflect and re-energise. It was a good time to look at other things, other sports, other teams and visit places.
“I feel really ready, really excited to be back when the right opportunity comes.”
