Teflon Tim Steidten was back in his element yesterday, acting as lord of the manor, tour guide, and concierge for new West Ham boss Graham Potter on his first day at the club.
The Hammers’ director of football has displayed incredible resilience, seemingly rebounding from the brink of an exit just two weeks ago.
At that time, Steidten found himself embroiled in a power struggle with Julen Lopetegui, while also facing scrutiny from the club over questionable transfer decisions during the summer window. Consequently, the German saw his authority on transfers significantly reduced, appearing to signal an imminent departure from the London Stadium.
However, Steidten was front and centre during the selection process for Lopetegui’s replacement, playing a pivotal role in interviewing the three candidates West Ham considered.
Yesterday marked a triumphant return for the former Bayer Leverkusen man as he featured prominently in West Ham’s mini-film documenting Graham Potter’s first day at Rush Green.
The footage captured Potter warmly greeting Steidten with a cheery “alright, mate,” a firm handshake, and a friendly shoulder slap. The Hammers’ director of football then gave the new manager a tour of the facilities, marking a stark contrast to his double bans from the training ground under both David Moyes and Julen Lopetegui.
Training Ground Déjà vu
The scenes felt familiar, echoing the glossy optimism of Lopetegui’s arrival video in the summer when West Ham were hailed by mainstream media as having “won the transfer window.”
Potter himself has been impressive, exuding a clear vision for the club and creating a palpable sense of optimism ahead of tonight’s FA Cup clash. Generating such positivity within 24 hours of his arrival is no small feat.
A top West Ham United source told Claret and Hugh, “I hope Potter is here for the next 5-10 years,” a sentiment I wholeheartedly share.
However, if I were the new West Ham manager, I’d be sleeping with one eye open, given the chequered history of the Hammers’ director of football.
