West Ham United: Is the Potter era real or a relegation scare in disguise
Some fans fear a relegation dogfight lurks beyond the horizon.
However the optimistic voices insist this is the real start of the Potter era.
Pundits peg West Ham around 15th this season.
Last season they finished 14th, and that memory still gnaws at belief.
I distrust high lines unless a barge built centre back stands behind them.
We love a hard press and a harder tackle in this badge.
The soul of the club lives in the stands, not the boardroom.
If this touches Millwall or Spurs, expect a jab thrown with East End grit.
Meanwhile the real test is consistency and grit, not glossy headlines.
The figures may whisper progress, but the people roar for the crest and the results.
TLDR Relegation fears exist but optimism remains about the Potter era.
Last season ended 14th and this squad eyes a higher finish.
Expect press heavy football and grit over fancy finishing.
Jarrod Bowen
West Ham United