Graham Potter responds to England job vacancy

Graham Potter has revealed he is "ready" to return to management after being named as one of the potential candidates to succeed Gareth Southgate as England manager.

Southgate announced his decision to resign from his position on Tuesday, just days after missing out on the chance to lift European silverware with the nation. He led the Three Lions for eight years, becoming one of the countries most successful managers.

The list of his potential successors is already lengthy, with Mauricio Pochettino, Eddie Howe and even Jurgen Klopp among the names to replace him. Another name on that list is Potter, who has been out of work since he was sacked by Chelsea in April 2023.

Potter's managerial career took a hit after a disappointing spell with the Blues, where he led the side for just 31 matches. However, the former defender has admitted that he is ready to step back into the dugout, although he refused to be drawn on the England job.

"Today is not the day to speak about [the England vacancy]," Potter told Sky Sports News.

"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."

Potter has been linked with a handful of vacant positions since his Chelsea exit. Talks were held with Ajax and Potter was even linked with a dramatic return to Brighton, but he is yet to accept a new position.

"I spoke to lots of teams and lots of clubs but it was recognising that journey was a long journey, a tough journey," he explained. "Unless the right opportunity came along I wasn't rushing to go back into football. It had to be right for me.

"It was important I was patient and waited for the right opportunity and took the time with the family to reflect and think about what I wanted to do. Now I'm in that good place where I'm happy to be ready and looking forward to the next challenge.

"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. If [what comes next is] anything like the previous 12 years I'll be delighted."

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