‘Best by far’: The former Portsmouth favourite now earning rave reviews in Premier League
The West Ham United man is making his mark in the Premier League - and no doubt there’s a few envious glances coming from Fratton Park after his Championship impact at PO4 last term.
He’s a talent missed at Pompey after a campaign which saw him embraced by the Fratton Faithful.
And now Freddie Potts is reminding his former club’s fanbase of the quality they saw last season, as he makes the breakthrough at the highest level.
Premier League plaudits for former Pompey man
In fact, it’s the classy midfielder’s time at PO4 which is being credited for allowing him to make such an impressive impact in the Premier League, after his hurtling emergence continued.
Potts is playing a key role in lifting the gloom at West Ham, as the Londoners recorded back-to-back home wins for the first time since October last year.
After a man-of-the-match full league debut in the 3-1 success over Newcastle, it was the 22-year-old who set the standard for the Hammers in a 3-2 win over Burnley on Saturday.
Potts’ stats stood out at the London Stadium despite him being withdrawn just after the hour mark, as he won the most duels (seven), tied for the most tackles won (three) and most chances created (three). Furthermore, the former Wycombe loanee put in the most accurate crosses (two), was dribbled past the fewest times (zero) and tied for the most clearances (six).
It’s form which has got West Ham fans cooing over his ability, with concern over Potts picking up an injury - before boss Nuno Espirito Santo alleviated those worries after the game.
The plaudits have been coming for the man who made 38 appearances at Fratton Park last term, earning similar praise for his composure along the way.
On X, formerly Twitter, there was relief from @WestHamViews the injury wasn’t worse. They said: ‘Already becoming such a crucial player. Glad to see him walking around at the end, as we can't lose him to injury!’
‘No West Ham player won more duels, made more tackles or created more chances against Burnley than Freddie Potts,’ added @WestHam_Central. Meanwhile, @CFC_Kea’s view of Potts was clear as they stated: ‘West Ham’s best midfielder by far.’
Amid the praise for Potts, Nuno has called for a degree of calm amid the excitement at his potential.
Speaking ahead of the Burnley game, the Portuguese also highlighted Pompey’s impact in the player’s education which now sees him arrive at a position to be able to operate against the best players in the world.
Nuno Espirito Santo calls for Potts patience
He said: ‘He had a fantastic match (against Newcastle) he was really balanced.
‘Almost all his actions were accurate. He did what the team needed in those moments. The balance, his presence there in the middle of the park.
‘But Freddie played one game. He played 100 games in the Championship and League One. That’s what made Freddie.
‘Now I think he’s a good option for us. Freddie is one of those that has so many things, so much talent.
‘Declan Rice broke into West Ham without playing in any other competition. He came from the academy to the first team. So different situations.
‘Mark Noble played more than 500 games for West Ham. He’s a legend. A Freddie played one game.
‘We’re here to support him. Let the players grow naturally.’