Graham Potter refused to comment on the ongoing speculation linking him to the England national team job, instead choosing to heap praise on the outgoing boss Gareth Southgate.
Potter, who was receiving an honorary doctorate from Leeds Beckett University, acknowledged Southgate's impressive tenure leading the England team, which ended with a runners-up medal at Euro 2024.
"Gareth has done a fantastic job. I don't think there's anybody in the country that is more respected in football than Gareth. He and his team led the country and led the team in a really, really good way and I have a huge respect for him," Potter told the BBC.
“Today is the day to wish him a nice break, because he’s earned that, and I wish him well whatever he does in the next part of his career.”
The former Chelsea, Brighton, and Swansea City manager, who rose to prominence during his time at Swedish club Ostersund, declined to address whether he was interested in the England role, stating, "I don't think today is the day to speak about that."
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With Southgate's departure following England's defeat in the Euro 2024 final against Spain last week, the Football Association is reportedly considering a number of potential replacements, including current Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou and former Spurs and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Newcastle United have also indicated they will fight to keep their head coach, Eddie Howe, should the FA make an approach. Although, he still remains a bookmakers frontrunner.
