by Ethan Harris
SWANSEA City manager Graham Potter has remained tight-lipped on speculation surrounding a new chairman coming into the club.
Reports from the BBC suggest the club has lined up Trevor Birch as a replacement for Huw Jenkins at the Liberty Stadium, who stepped down from the role last month.
Birch has held a number of executive roles at various clubs, including Everton, Chelsea and Derby County.
Potter had little to say on the rumours, but did add that the movement behind the scenes was a positive thing for the club.
“I can’t tell you too much. A bit like when we’re linked with players, until anything’s official I’ve nothing to report,” Potter told reporters. He was speaking ahead of his side’s clash with managerless West Bromwich Albion on Wednesday.
“We need to look at what was needed to help the existing people here. It was always going to be a different approach.
“It’s something we’ve been aware of. But players and coaches have enough to worry about without thinking of what’s happening behind the scenes.”
With an upcoming clash against West Bromwich Albion on the horizon for the Swans, Potter also spoke of Oli McBurnie’s absence, with the Scotsman missing another game through illness.
The 22-year-old also missed out against Norwich last time out, with the forward being an integral part of the Swans first team, it is a huge blow for Potter’s side.
“Oli has had a bit of an illness that has developed into sickness, without being too graphic he has a bit of a sickness bug,” Potter remarked.
“It does not make sense to rush him into this game, he needs to train for a couple of days and there will not be time for that.
“We are probably working towards having him back for the weekend, just easing him back in if all goes well.”
Potter also gave his thoughts on the incidents surrounding fan behaviour, with a number of games experiencing pitch invasions over the weekend, one of which saw Aston Villa player Jack Grealish hit from behind.
Having experienced a similar situation during his time in Sweden, the Swans boss described what happened as “horrible”.
“It was horrible to watch. I’ve had an experience myself in Sweden. One of my players had a similar thing,” Potter continued.
“It’s terrible and it’s something we should never see on a football pitch.
“When it happens you’re not too concerned about the football, you’re concerned about the player and if he’s okay.
“On the street if someone comes up behind you and hits you it’s not pleasant. It’s not just a football problem it’s a challenge for society.”
The Swans face West From at the Hawthorns tomorrow. The Baggies dismissed manager Darren Moore following the club’s 1-1 draw against Ipswich, despite them being in the top four.
