Interviews

Potter impressed by new players

A number of new recruits made their first appearances in front of the Amex crowd on Saturday.

By Charlie Hanson • 30 July 2022

By Paul Hazlewood
Graham Potter's team rounded off pre-season with a 5-1 win over Espanyol.

Graham Potter has been pleased with how his squad are gelling ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Our home supporters got to see the likes of Kaoru Mitoma and Deniz Undav in action for the first time, as well as Jan Paul van Hecke who was making his first appearance in front of an Amex crowd in Saturday’s 5-1 win over Espanyol in our final pre-season friendly.

“We’re just getting to know them and them us of course and they’re settling into everything. But we’re really pleased with how they’ve brought their own personality to the group,” said Potter.

“The group is gelling quite well so we’re really happy with that. We’re going to need everybody as the season goes on so it’s nice to have a good squad.”

Leo Trossard marked the final pre-season friendly with a fine hat-trick in the 5-1 win.

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Potter's Espanyol verdict

“It was nice for him to get that,” Potter added. “I thought we attacked well, created some chances and it probably should have been a couple more at half-time. 

“We were the dominant team throughout the game and I think the scoreline reflected that in the end. It was nice for us to get the goals and Leo to score three.”

The new season kicks off next Sunday at Old Trafford – the head coach’s fourth as Albion boss.

“Most of the fans I meet are really positive and very supportive and always have been. I think they can see the trajectory we’re on. It won’t always be plain sailing as last season proved. 

“You have some moments where you have to suffer and then it’s about staying together. But we’ve always had the support of our fans so we’re looking forward to it again.”