Brighton and Hove Albion supporters didn’t need Derren Brown to tell them what was coming.
Graham Potter – the best English manager around as far as Pep Guardiola is concerned – has already been linked with Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and Everton since the end of last season.
And when Aston Villa’s billionaire owners pulled the trigger on poor Dean Smith following a 1-0 defeat at Southampton, it was only a matter of time before Potter was the name on everybody’s lips once more.
According to the Daily Record, Aston Villa have held talks behind the scenes regarding a potential approach for the former Swansea City coach, placing Potter next to Paulo Fonseca, Steven Gerrard, Thomas Frank and Kasper Hjulmand on their managerial shortlist.
46-year-old Potter showed little inclination to turn his back on an upwardly mobile, ever-improving Brighton side when linked with Everton and Spurs, however. And, even before Smith was given his marching orders, Potter indicated his job at the Amex was unfinished.
Would Graham Potter leave Brighton for Aston Villa?
“It feels like any job that comes up, my name seems to get thrown into it. My name must be stuck in the computers or something!” chuckled Potter, speaking to Sussex Live last week.
“I am focused on what I’m doing here – I’m very happy here and preparing for the (next) game and the team.”
Brighton’s talismanic tactician is under contract until 2025. While Aston Villa have no qualms about paying a substantial compensation fee to get the man they want, the Seagulls are unlikely to play ball.
It must be said, however, that Potter is a boyhood Villa fan – much like Dean Smith. The Solihull-born, former Birmingham City left-back acquired a fondness for claret and blue after their iconic European Cup triumph in 1982 (Birmingham Mail).
Needless to say, Brighton supporters hope Potter follows his head rather than his heart. Ironically, Brighton’s next Premier League game is on 20 November at Villa Park. Could be interesting?
Here’s what some Brighton and Hove Albion supporters on Twitter thought of the Potter to Villa rumours:
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