Graham Potter breaks silence on Man Utd talks and 'links with Napoli and Stoke'

GRAHAM POTTER addressed speculation linking him with the top job at Manchester United with a hilarious quip.

Potter, 49, has been a free agent since his dismissal by Chelsea 18 months ago but continues to be touted as a potential successor to under-fire United boss Erik ten Hag.

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Ten Hag’s position at Old Trafford is under threat after Sunday’s 3-0 thumping by Tottenham in another hapless display by the Red Devils.

And the ex-Brighton manager broke his silence amid all the continuous talk linking him with the job.

Potter, who was appearing on MNF on Sky Sports, said when asked if he’d enjoy the challenge of managing United: “I am sitting here enjoying the challenge of answering your questions.”

The ex-Chelsea boss was less coy when asked about reports suggesting he was approached by Man Utd chiefs during the summer before they decided to hold on to Ten Hag.

The former Swansea manager added: “I take what the media say with a pinch of salt.

“I am the only coach in world football to be linked with Stoke City and Napoli in the same week.

“I have had lots of conversations with lots of people and I think out of respect to those people it’s best those are kept private.”

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Potter also joked about taking the England job ahead of Bournemouth’s 3-1 win over Southampton. He said: “I think it’s time for a commercial break, isn’t it?!

“As an Englishman, of course it’s a fantastic job and I’m supportive of FA and what they decide to do and whoever the next coach is.

“Gareth did a fantastic job and I’m sure Lee will in his time, however long that is.”

Potter, though, doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to return to the dugout after 12 years of non-stop work for the likes of Ostersunds, Swansea, Brighton and Chelsea.

The Solihull tactician admitted he deliberately decided to step away from the limelight and focus on his family.

Potter recently admitted: “I spent some time with the family, [to] connect with them after a 12-year journey which has started in the fourth tier of Swedish football and ends in the last eight of the Champions League.”