Karren Brady Responds to Graham Potter After West Ham’s Opening Day Defeat to Sunderland

Karren Brady has expressed her support for manager Graham Potter, especially after West Ham’s disappointing performance in their opening match in six years.

The prominent football figure is confident that Brazilian playmaker Lucas Paqueta will remain at the club beyond the current transfer window.

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The vice-chair of the Hammers has backed Potter following the team’s 3-0 defeat to Sunderland, newly promoted after six years.

Potter, 50, has been under considerable pressure since taking over at the London Stadium in January, replacing Julen Lopetegui, with a record that includes 10 losses out of 20 matches across all competitions.

However, Brady, 56, reassures that the board will not “panic” over disappointing outcomes and expects a “reaction” in the forthcoming Premier League home match against Chelsea on Friday.

Brady remarked on the talkSPORT Sunday Edition: “I wish we could redo yesterday. That loss is particularly challenging to digest.

“A 3-0 loss in our season opener is tough for the fans, players, and the manager.

“I spent ample time with the manager and the team during our pre-season tour in America.

“The team spirit is impressive. They will certainly be the most affected by that match.

“I am hopeful we will see a response, as they are eager to quickly make amends.

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“Graham is a creative manager. He remains composed under pressure, is detail-oriented, and is an excellent leader.

“He builds strong relationships with players, helping them grasp his vision.

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“He incorporates modern techniques, which require time to cultivate a cohesive and successful team.

“West Ham is not a club that panics over management concerns. We prefer to support our managers and stay the course.

“I genuinely wish for his success. He is a delight to work with, displaying exceptional professionalism. The players hold him in high regard.

“His rapport with the players is commendable.

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“I know he’ll be having a meeting with the team today to carefully analyze the mistakes from yesterday and find ways to rectify them.”

Recently, Paqueta, 27, was cleared by an independent regulatory board following a two-year FA investigation concerning allegations of spot-fixing.

The South American midfielder, who has two years left on his contract, faced uncertainty had he been found guilty.

Despite previous links to Manchester City before the investigation, the club is not considering selling him, viewing him as a crucial asset for this season.

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Brady reiterated: “I believe he wants to stay, and we definitely want him to remain, so he’s not going anywhere.

“Lucas has endured an incredibly challenging time.

“The allegations against him were serious, leading to discussions of a worldwide ban from the FA. The severity of that situation was significant.

“From the outset, when the allegations surfaced, he remained resolute, asserting his innocence. There was no evidence linking him to any wrongdoing.

“Receiving this verdict was a tremendous relief. We have always believed in him and supported him throughout this arduous journey.”