Was at Östersunds FK for seven years
©IMAGO
Just a few hours after the dismissal of coach Jon Dahl Tomasson, Graham Potter has stepped up as his successor. The 50-year-old told the Swedish TV show “Fotbollskanalen”: “I’m in my house in Sweden right now. I’m unemployed and I’ve just left the Premier League. I’m really open to anything where I feel like I can help. The job as coach of the Swedish national team would be fantastic.”
Potter himself had to resign from West Ham United just three weeks ago after he had scored an average of 0.92 points in 25 games since taking over at the beginning of the year – the historically worst record in the club’s history. The connection to Sweden comes from his first coaching position at Östersunds FK, where he was on the sidelines in 224 games between 2011 and 2018 and won the Swedish Cup in 2017.
“I have feelings for Sweden. I love the country and I love Swedish football. I owe a lot to Swedish football. So yes, it would be a fantastic opportunity for me,” said Potter. Tomasson had to leave the Swedish national team after just one point from four World Cup qualifying games. However, there is still a minimal chance of making the playoffs.
It is unclear whether the SvFF association is also interested in collaborating. Potter is aware of this. “I have no expectations. I’m sure they will do their job and see what’s best for Swedish football. From the outside, I wish them all the best. Because I have enormous respect for Sweden and Swedish football.”