West Ham United: David Moyes ‘plan’ emerges amid pressure ahead of Bayer Leverkusen clash
Despite widespread criticism over David Moyes and questions about his role as West Ham manager, Frank McAvennie has insisted he will have a plan in place for the clash with Bayer Leverkusen.
The former Hammers forward insisted that big occasions in Europe like this one are where the boss “comes into his own” as he backed his former side to get a result.
This comes despite criticism of Moyes’ style of play this season and questions about his long-term future, although McAvennie confessed he doesn’t mind counter-attacking football in games like this as it has been proven to get results.
McAvennie – speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone – shared his view that the confidence at the club heading into the Europa League clash is a sign of how far they have come since Moyes arrived.
“I think they’ve got a chance. It’s two cup finals isn’t it, really? West Ham have got a chance. It would be nice to see them do it and I think this is where David comes into his own,” McAvennie explained.
“He knows how to hold teams and hit them on the break. I don’t mind that, it’s just when they do it every week that I mind. David will have a plan for this and no matter how much we criticise and put pressure on David Moyes, I would back him.
“Would you be surprised if we beat Leverkusen? No. That’s how far we’ve come.”
David Moyes pressure could grow after West Ham v Leverkusen
The criticism of Moyes’ position, as mentioned by McAvennie, has come as a result of the negative performances at the London Stadium and that pressure could continue to grow if the Hammers are embarrassed in Europe.
Moyes’ long-term future is still unclear as his contract is set to come to an end this summer, leading to hints he could walk away, with McAvennie previously telling West Ham Zone that another trophy success could tempt him to stay.
With the manager’s future said to be in his own hands, a big win in Europe against one of the continent’s most in-form teams could make up his mind – as well as those of the supporters and the club – and prove his worth once more.
The Hammers head into the game as the underdogs given Leverkusen’s form both in the Bundesliga and in Europe as they remain unbeaten all season and still hold the possibility of winning a European treble in a historic season for the club.
In other West Ham news, a Michail Antonio decision is set to be made v Leverkusen.
For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.