West Ham hope to have Graham Potter in charge for Friday’s FA Cup clash even though Lopetegui is STILL manager
WEST HAM hope Graham Potter will take charge of their FA Cup game at Aston Villa on Friday night.
Potter has agreed to take over at the London Stadium but the club are still finalising the last details of his appointment.
However, the Hammers are still yet to sack current boss Julen Lopetegui.
Lopetegui was left once again to take charge of training on Wednesday, despite the club being close to appointing Potter, 49, as his successor.
West Ham cancelled their press conference which was scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, ahead of Friday night’s third round tie at Villa Park.
Potter is keen to take training on Thursday and be in the dugout for the game, with the postponed press conference also needing to be held.
Lopetegui is furious with how the week has played out.
On Monday it emerged he had asked technical director Tim Steidten to stay away from the training ground after their relationship broke down.
Chairman David Sullivan has led the search for a new manager, though Steidten was the one to initially approach Potter.
After talks were re-opened this week, vice-chair Karren Brady has taken charge of direct negotiations.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS
As well as finalising Lopetegui’s exit, a new coaching staff must be appointed.
The former Wolves manager brought five coaches with him to east London, all of whom are expected to leave.
Potter is looking to initially bring up to four of his own coaching staff with him, while goalkeeping coach, Xavi Valero, is expected to stay.
Valero was the one member of David Moyes’ staff to remain in the summer.