West Ham Boss Graham Potter Praises Mohammed Kudus's Work Ethic
West Ham United manager Graham Potter has defended Mohammed Kudus's performance this season, citing his strong work ethic and contributions to the team.
West Ham United head coach Graham Potter addressed the media in his latest press conference, discussing the team's preparation for their upcoming match against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Hammers have struggled in their last two Premier League games, securing only one point, but are looking to bounce back after a much-needed rest.
Potter provided an update on forward Niclas Fullkrug, who has been sidelined since January due to injury. “Fullkrug has been training with the group. He will more than likely be in the squad, we've just got to build his minutes up in terms of what he's able to do.” Potter acknowledged that Fullkrug's return to competitive football will require careful management, considering his prolonged absence. “He hasn't played competitive football in a while and has had a fairly significant injury. He's training well and is building his fitness up so he'll be in the squad.”
Potter on the positive impact Füllkrug could have for the rest of the season 💪#TalkingPoint with @LycamobileUK 📞 pic.twitter.com/MPh42XzOqQ
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Regarding team news, Potter confirmed that while most players are available, one forward will miss the match against Wolves. “There are a few bumps and bruises and a bit of fatigue from internationals, but we have another training session now, everyone is in a decent place so we have a relatively full squad apart from Crysencio Summerville.”
Potter defended Ferguson's loan move from Brighton, dismissing claims that it has been a failure. “He's been doing a lot well,"/” Potter said. “It was always going to be a bit of patience with him, but going away, getting some minutes, and scoring is great for a forward.”
Potter emphasized the need to consider the context of Ferguson's situation, highlighting the challenges of adapting to a new team. “From our perspective, that's unfair,” Potter stated. “You have to see the context of where he was and the minutes he's played previously. We got him at the early stages of that return to playing stage.”
Potter acknowledged that it is difficult for a player to immediately make an impact in the Premier League. “To think you can just walk into a Premier League team and hit the ground running is difficult,” Potter said. However, he expressed satisfaction with Ferguson's progress, stating, ”We are happy with him. He is enjoying his time here, and he is ready to help.”
Graham Potter shared his thoughts on Jarrod Bowen's recent performances for England, expressing his delight at the player's success. “I'm delighted for Jarrod Bowen winning two more England caps,” Potter said, highlighting Bowen's achievement.
Potter emphasized the benefits of players representing their countries, citing the valuable experience and exposure they gain. “It's always good for our players to represent their countries and Jarrod's no different,” Potter stated. “I think it helps them, it helps going away, it helps with a different experience and different environment.”
Potter noted that Bowen has returned to the team in a positive mindset, ready to contribute to the team's efforts. “And then to come back and he's come back in a good way, in a good place, so again, we're looking forward to seeing him for the next two months or so, just really push on and finish the season off strongly,” Potter said.
Potter also shared his assessment of Mohammed Kudus's performance this season, acknowledging that the player has been slightly underwhelming despite his contributions.
Graham Potter shared his thoughts on Mohammed Kudus's performance this season, acknowledging that the player may be slightly disappointed with his output. “I think Mo has had probably a season that, from his perspective, would be a little bit disappointing, not because of his lack of effort or anything like that, but sometimes these things happen,” Potter said.
Despite Kudus's somewhat underwhelming season, Potter praised the player's work ethic and dedication. “Speaking personally, he's been great with us in terms of how he's worked every day, fantastic,” Potter noted. “He has built his fitness up, built his condition up to the point where he can sustain things a lot better now.”
Potter emphasized that fluctuations in form are a natural part of the game, and that Kudus's fortunes can change quickly. “Football can go like that sometimes. You can have a little spell when it doesn't quite happen for you in front of goal, or your final pass just doesn't quite get there. It doesn't take much to turn that round,” Potter said.
Final preparations ✅
— West Ham United (@WestHam) March 31, 2025
A behind-the-scenes look from Rush Green 👇
Potter highlighted Kudus's contributions to the team, citing his impressive performance against Arsenal as a notable example. “How he contributed, for example, against Arsenal in our win there, even though he didn't score or assist, he was a top, top player in that game and massively helped us,” Potter said. He also emphasized that Kudus's value to the team extends beyond his statistical output. “So the numbers say something, but there's also the (other) aspects of his performance that have been really, really good.”
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