Jan 11, (V7N) - New West Ham United manager Graham Potter remained optimistic despite his side's FA Cup third-round defeat to Aston Villa on Friday. The former Chelsea and Brighton boss, who took over from the sacked Julen Lopetegui just a day earlier, was encouraged by his team’s performance, even though Villa came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory.

Potter acknowledged the "exciting" atmosphere at Villa Park, with 6,500 West Ham supporters creating a strong presence. While disappointed by the result, he found positives in how the players responded to his tactical instructions.

"The talent is there," Potter said, emphasizing the need to get the team working together as a cohesive unit. He added that their focus now shifts to preparing for their Premier League match against Fulham on Tuesday.

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