Graham Potter has praised his players for their strong start to the season and says the squad are in ‘a good place’ ahead of today’s Amex clash with third-placed Leeds United.
Albion have picked up seven points out of nine so far – the same haul as today’s opponents – and if they were to avoid defeat it would stretch their unbeaten run to nine games going back to the end of last season and establish a new top-flight club record.
Potter has named the same team for all three games so far and has praised the contribution not only of his starters but the substitutes used as well. Asked about consistency of team selection, he said, “I think it’s played a part in the games and results so far, and the substitutes have come on and played with an enthusiasm and willingness to help the team.
“It tells you we’re in a good place. Everyone knows you need more than 11 players in this league and I’m really happy with how the group is fighting for each other. The credit should go to the players because their level is high in training every day and if you have that you have a chance to perform at the weekend.”
Potter has stressed the importance the Amex crowd can play today as Albion look for their first home win of the season.
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“The home advantage is huge. If the crowd are with you and they’re hostile and supportive it’s important and you can see the difference it makes. We’ll do our best to engage the crowd and make them feel part of the game, we do need them.”
Leeds produced one of the most eye-catching results of the season so far when they beat Chelsea 3-0 last Sunday and Potter expects a tough game against a side known for the intensity of their pressing and fitness.
“They’re very compact through the middle of the pitch and very hard to play through, less man for man and more working as a unit," added Potter.
“Collectively they’ve got a really strong understanding of how they want to work defensively. [Coach] Jesse [Marsch] has used the good things that were there before and added his own ideas on the team which is really impressive. It’s going to be a hard game for us.”