West Ham United are unlikely to entertain loan offers for academy products Freddie Potts and George Earthy this summer, with new manager Graham Potter eager to involve both midfielders in his plans for the 2024/25 season.
According to the Evening Standard, Potter views the duo as part of a long-term vision that puts greater focus on developing and utilising homegrown talent at the London Stadium.
After standout spells last season, the pair had been expected to go back out on loan for further experience, but the new approach signals a shift in direction under Potter.
Potter’s West Ham Midfield Vision Includes Potts and Earthy
Freddie Potts impressed during his time with Portsmouth, with several strong performances in midfield that caught the eye across League One.
George Earthy, a standout within West Ham’s ranks at Rush Green, has steadily built a reputation as one of the club’s top prospects. This pre season was a chance for him to prove himself, however having recently suffered an injury in pre-season training, he might have to wait a bit longer to make his mark.
Rather than allowing both players to leave again for more game time, Potter is set on bringing them into his first-team setup, with the Evening Standard noting that he wants their involvement from pre-season onwards. It shows the former Chelsea and Brighton manager is keen to nurture the club’s own talents instead of constantly looking elsewhere.
Related Article: West Ham Academy Loanees Shine in Season-End Success Earning Accolades and Promotions
Interest in Tyler Morton Adds a Twist
Despite that intent, fresh reports have linked West Ham with a move for Liverpool’s Tyler Morton. The 22-year-old has had two solid loan spells at Blackburn and Hull, and could arrive as a more ready-made midfield option if the Hammers push through with a deal.
That link has sparked questions over how minutes in the middle of the park will be shared. While Morton’s arrival wouldn’t necessarily shut the door on Potts and Earthy, it would raise the level of competition for places.
Academy Opportunity Still Alive Amid Incoming Competition
Even with Morton in the picture, there’s still every chance Potts and Earthy get their shot. The Evening Standard’s story underlines that Potter is planning to give both players their opportunity before deciding anything about potential loans. Their pre-season performances are likely to be key.
The message from the new boss seems clear: the pathway remains open for academy talents, and he’s keen to see what Potts and Earthy can bring to the table before making any big calls.
Homegrown Hope as Season Approaches
For West Ham fans, it’s a welcome shift towards backing the academy. Calls for greater belief in young players have been growing louder, and with Potter’s track record for developing youth, this looks like the clearest sign yet that things are changing.
Potts and Earthy won’t be sent out the door just yet. Instead, they’ll get their chance to impress at the highest level—a move the fanbase will be watching closely as a possible turning point in how the club values its own.
In other news, Niclas Fullkrug has seemingly impressed Graham Potter during West Ham’s pre-season and fans are very excited for what the German number 9 can offer next season.
