West Ham United manager Graham Potter has urged for unity after captain Jarrod Bowen was forced to apologise for trying to confront fans following the club’s 3-2 EFL Cup defeat to Wolves.
Bowen, who approached the travelling supporters at full-time to salute them, reacted angrily after something appeared to be said from the stands. He was quickly held back by stewards as tensions flared.
The Hammers suffered their third straight loss of the season after two late goals from Jorgen Strand Larsen condemned them to defeat, adding to what has already been a turbulent start to the campaign.
Speaking after the game, Potter admitted the team was “in pain” and called for supporters to rally behind the players. “We’re all in pain so we need everybody to help. We need everybody’s support. The team’s suffering at the moment, we all are, we’re all hurting. I can assure you no-one’s happy,” he said.
The manager noted that he did not know exactly what had been said by either the fan or Bowen, but praised the forward’s commitment. “Our supporters have been fantastic. They are hurting because of the results we’ve had, and Jarrod obviously cares about the club and the team. It’s just an exchange of views by people who care. Jarrod has been a fantastic captain and servant for the club.”
Bowen, who had been the player closest to the away fans, was visibly incensed before being pulled away, highlighting the growing frustrations around West Ham’s poor run of form.
