Graham Potter 'hasn't ruled out' managing England as former Chelsea boss responds to links with Three Lions job

After a whimpering exit from Chelsea, Potter decided to take a break from the public eye to recover from the intense pressures of top-level management. And after remaining 17 months away from the dugout, the manager feels that he is once again ready to don the tactician's hat.

With Gareth Southgate stepping down following England’s narrow defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, Potter has emerged as one of the key candidates for the now-vacant England managerial position. He is reportedly on the Football Association’s shortlist of candidates, especially if current interim manager Lee Carsley is not given the permanent post.

In an interview with TheTelegraph, Potter insisted that though he is gearing up for a comeback, the 49-year-old is carefully weighing his next move.

“I’ve felt ready to return for a little while,” said Potter. “But it still has to be the right thing. I’m excited to hear what the opportunities are and I’ll take each one and judge it on its merits.”

When asked about his chances to lead The Three Lions he said: "I like the day-to-day and the building process of club management. International management is a different rhythm and there are pluses for that. It’s more intense when it’s on, but you’ve got a bit more breathing space in between. It’s nothing that I’ve ruled out, but at the same time, I do like the day-to-day bit of working with the players and being in at the club and trying to build and make a difference. Making a difference to people is why you do this. When you look back at the players you’ve helped in some way. That’s the most rewarding part.”

While Potter remains a key candidate for the England position, he faces stiff competition from other high-profile managers. Eddie Howe, who has performed admirably at Newcastle United, is reportedly under consideration, and there has also been speculation that the FA might look beyond the English shores. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has been mentioned as a potential target, with the FA considering a foreign appointment for the first time since Fabio Capello's tenure.