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Graham's magic

23/ 4/2004

WITH a surname like Potter - you can hardly blame the headline writers from making the odd literary reference to a certain wizard, but Macc Town have got good reason to thank their magic man.

Former England under-21 international Graham Potter has been a revelation at left wing-back since joining the club in February, almost erasing the memory of former terrace favourite Danny Adams from the minds of Silkmen supporters.

Having played in the Premiership with Southampton and enjoying successful spells at Birmingham City and Stoke City during a 12-year career, the 29-year-old defender arrived at Moss Rose during the club's lowest ebb in recent years.

"We hit rock bottom against Huddersfield," admitted Potter - referring to a 4-0 thrashing at the McAlpine Stadium. "Everyone thought we were down, but since then we have knuckled down and turned things round."

Macc's five-game unbeaten run has been due in no small part to Potter's industry down the left in a new system brought in by new boss Brian Horton.

"Brian changed the shape a little bit and has used his experience, but things have been fairly similar.

"Aside from a mad half-hour against Northampton, I thought we had turned things round in the three games before that against Swansea, Kidderminster and Lincoln.

"We have got some great results since then, and Brian has come in with a lot of experience and guided us along."

Potter admits the mood is much-improved around training now Macc have distanced themselves from the relegation battle - but stopped short of saying the side were safe.

He told us: "It's a great little set up here, I'm really enjoying my football. The lads are fantastic and we've got a few really good players. The fans have welcomed me and made it really easy to settle in.

"I don't think we're safe just yet and until we're mathematically clear I won't believe it, but another win would be great on Saturday."

Potter has one year left on his contract at Moss Rose - and is looking forward to a bright future at the club.

He said: "We need to get clear of relegation and then we can start looking forward to next year. Hopefully I can be a part of it."