TalkSPORT pundit Darren Bent has backed former Chelsea and Brighton head coach Graham Potter as a potential candidate to be the next West Ham manager.

Julen Lopetegui is under pressure after a poor start to his reign at the London Stadium. When it was posited that some managers would find the job at West Ham too big to handle, Bent dismissed the notion, stating Potter has the acumen required for the role:

“Too big [for West Ham]? I mean, what is too big? They got David Moyes. Not happy. Get him out. Lopetegui. Not happy with him. Get him out. Potter would be a good fit because he is a good coach. He must be waiting for something.”

Lopetegui’s team face Brentford on Saturday afternoon and, if the Irons do suffer another defeat, more questions will be asked about the Spaniard’s suitability for the job.

What is the owner’s stance on Lopetegui?

Although supporters have not been impressed by what they have seen from the ex-Wolves boss so far, David Sullivan and the board are not said to be considering a change in the dugout at this stage.

Lopetegui is not reportedly under any immediate pressure but that is likely to change if results don’t begin to improve.

Would Potter be in the running to become West Ham manager?

The Englishman has not managed since being sacked by Chelsea in April 2023. After impressing many with his success at Brighton, his spell at Stamford Bridge was a disappointment, lasting just eight months before being relieved of his duties.

Speaking earlier this week, Potter stated he is “ready” to make his return to management, which would suggest that he is available to take the reins at West Ham if the job becomes available.

Find out who is in West Ham’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here