WEST HAM is creating a shortlist of potential candidates to replace Julen Lopetegui following their 3-1 defeat to Leicester.

Among those under consideration are former Chelsea manager Graham Potter, ex-Borussia Dortmund head coach Edin Terzic, and Sergio Conceicao.

West Ham have identified three candidates to take over from Julen Lopetegui

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West Ham have identified three candidates to take over from Julen LopeteguiCredit: Getty
Ex-Chelsea manager Graham Potter is a leading candidate if Lopetegui departs

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Ex-Chelsea manager Graham Potter is a leading candidate if Lopetegui departsCredit: Getty

Lopetegui found himself facing the threat of dismissal prior to West Ham’s match against Newcastle last month.

A crucial victory granted the ex-Wolves manager a brief reprieve.

However, a terrible loss to Arsenal followed by a humiliating defeat to Leicester on Tuesday has heightened concerns over his position.

The club management is generally reluctant to make managerial changes mid-season.

Nonetheless, fears regarding Lopetegui’s future have arisen quickly.

Terzic, who led Dortmund to last season’s Champions League final, is reported to be the top choice among the club’s decision-makers.

There are, however, doubts about his willingness to make the move to the London Stadium.

Conceicao, aged 50, secured three Primeira Liga titles with Porto before leaving the club last summer.

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Meanwhile, Potter, who has not held a managerial position since his departure from Chelsea in April last year, recently turned down an offer from Leicester and is said to be interested in the West Ham job.

Interestingly, he was analyzing the game during West Ham’s defeat to Leicester on Amazon Prime Video.

‘It doesn’t come for free’ – Graham Potter reveals shocking reason for his 18-month unemployment since Chelsea exit

Former Borussia Dortmund coach Edin Terzic is the club's top choice

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Former Borussia Dortmund coach Edin Terzic is the club’s top choiceCredit: AFP
Sergio Conceicao, former Porto manager, is also available

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Sergio Conceicao, former Porto manager, is also availableCredit: Getty

Potter has been engaged in television analysis lately and has previously contributed to Sky Sports.

He has witnessed the difficulties facing West Ham on the pitch firsthand.

Jamie Vardy netted a goal within two minutes, putting Leicester ahead on Ruud van Nistelrooy’s coaching debut.

Bilal El Khannouss added to Leicester’s lead in the second half.

Patson Daka’s late goal secured the victory, rendering Niclas Fullkrug’s 93rd-minute strike merely a consolation for the visitors.

At least West Ham’s upcoming fixtures are relatively favorable until they clash with Liverpool at the end of December.

Their next four matches include Wolves, Bournemouth, Brighton, and Southampton.