Graham Potter refused to get drawn into the ‘speculation’ linking him with the England managerial vacancy as he heaped praise on the departing Gareth Southgate.
Potter was instilled as one of the early bookies’ favourite to replace Southgate after he stood down following England’s Euro 2024 final defeat.
The 49-year-old coach has been out of work for 15 months since being sacked by Chelsea after less than seven months in charge at Stamford Bridge.
However, when asked, Potter refused to be drawn on his links to the England vacancy or his interest in the role and instead chose to pay tribute to Southgate’s achievements whilst in charge of the national team
‘Today’s not the day to to talk about that,’ he told ITV after being awarded an honorary doctorate from Leeds Beckett University.
‘The only thing to say is what a great job Gareth did. As an Englishman, I’m very proud of him and the team.
‘I think in English football I can’t think of anybody with more respect than Gareth has for how he has conducted himself and led the team deep into tournaments.
‘Him and his staff did a wonderful job so it’s about paying respects for that and the rest is just speculation.’
British duo Eddie Howe and Lee Carsley have also emerged as potential candidates for the job, while the FA are also said to be considering a foreign appointment for the first time since Fabio Capello.
Potter, meanwhile, who enjoyed an impressive managerial rise prior to his Chelsea sacking, said he spoke to several clubs during his break from the dugout but now feels like the time is right to return.
‘I’ve had a great break. The journey from where I started to where I finished doesn’t come for free so it was important for me to take a break and reflect and re-energise,’ he told Sky Sports.
‘It’s been a good time to look at other sports, other teams and go around and visit places.
‘I feel really ready and really excited to be back when the right opportunity comes.’
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