Football fans stunned after ITV presenter mistakes Graham Potter for Gareth Southgate live on TV

ITV presenter Semra Hunter mistook Graham Potter for Gareth Southgate during the opening of the World Cup last night.

Football fans were left stunned when an ITV presenter mistook West Midlands-born Sweden manager Graham Potter for ex-England manager Gareth Southgate.

The mishap was broadcasted live shortly after Mexico‘s 2-0 victory over South Africa in the opening match of the tournament.

CHOICES: Graham Potter (Image: Michael Campanella/Getty Images)placeholder image
CHOICES: Graham Potter (Image: Michael Campanella/Getty Images)

Presenter Semra Hunter was commenting on how other teams managers were ‘embracing American culture’ when a clip of Graham Potter, who was born in Solihull, appeared on screen wearing a cowboy hat while taking part in training with the Swedish team.

However, she called him Gareth Southgate, the former England manager who was in the role between 2016 and 2024.

Viewers were quick to take to social media to criticize the blunder.

Sir Gareth Southgate said that he hopes the transformation will make Martin House “a brilliant space for years to come”.placeholder image
Sir Gareth Southgate said that he hopes the transformation will make Martin House “a brilliant space for years to come”. | Gerard Binks

One user said: “What is this show after the Mexico game?! The American presenter just called Graham Potter, Gareth Southgate.”

Another added: “ITV sort this nonsense out. Its the world cup and your pundits have no clue what they're talking about,” while a third wrote: “American presenter calling Graham Potter Gareth Southgate, top knowledge.”

Meanwhile, a fourth wrote: “I have no idea who this lady is, but someone needs to tell her that’s not Gareth Southgate.”

ITV declined to comment.

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