Potter can work magic at Brighton

Brighton are on the hunt for a new manager after parting company with Chris Hughton on Monday and Swansea’s Graham Potter (2/7 Next Permanent Brighton Manager) is the frontrunner for the role.

Hughton became the first managerial casualty following the conclusion on 2018-19, despite keeping the club in the top-flight and reaching the semi-finals of the FA Cup.

Brighton have confirmed “that the process to find Chris’s successor is underway” and a number of candidates have already been linked with the post.

Potter, who only took charge at Swansea last summer, is the favourite to be in the dugout at the Amex by the start of 2019-20.

The 43-year-old shot to prominence after implementing his style and philosophy at Swedish club Ostersund between 2010 and 2018.

He led Ostersund from the fourth tier to the top-flight and took them into the Europa League, where they beat Arsenal 2-1 in the round of 32 at the Emirates, although they lost 4-2 on aggregate.

His first season in English football ultimately ended in disappointment as Swansea failed to earn promotion to the top-flight, finishing 10th, but his tactical approach has won over their fans.

Yet to be tested at the highest level, his appointment would be regarded as a gamble as Brighton look to continue their stay at in the Premier League.

England women’s team boss Phil Neville (6/1 Next Permanent Brighton Manager) has also been linked with the job but he is unlikely to leave the national side ahead of their 2019 World Cup campaign.

The Lionesses compete in the 24-team showpiece event in France from June 7 to July 7 and an exit prior to the competition would seriously hinder their chances of success.

Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez looks a more realistic contender as his future at St James’ Park remains uncertain.

Benitez (12/1 Next Permanent Brighton Manager) is set to be out of contract on June 1 and talks over a new deal have proved troublesome as he continues to seek assurances over financial backing.

The Spaniard boasts more experience than Potter and Neville combined and would send out a huge statement of intent.

Odds subject to change