Jeff Stelling stunned by West Ham travel claims ahead of Newcastle United clash. Credit: talkSPORT

Jeff Stelling stunned by West Ham United travel claims ahead of Newcastle United

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior football journalist specialising in refereeing and officiating; former contributor to The Football League Paper, Late Tackle, and the Premier League; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Refereeing controversies, football finance and governance, PGMOL decisions, and officiating analysis across the Premier League, EFL, and SPFL. THE INSIGHT Harri utilises a network of officiating and industry contacts to deliver verified, expert analysis of refereeing decisions and PGMOL policy. He provides the regulatory clarity behind the controversy to ensure fans get the full picture.

Published on:

25 Nov 2024, 3:13 am

Jeff Stelling cannot believe what West Ham fans are expected to do to watch their side face Newcastle United on Monday night.

Julen Lopetegui's side are set to travel up to St James' Park on 25 November for their first match back after the international break, embarking on a nearly 300-mile trip up North.

Fans will then need to make their way back to East London by car, with the last train home leaving before the match finishes or spend money on a hotel room in Newcastle.

With a supporter calling into talkSPORT [25 November, 7:44am] to complain about the situation, Stelling said: "I looked at that fixture, and I'm looking forward to watching it, but you can't help but think, 'West Ham fans, how the heck can they make that trip?'

"For a start, they're going to have to take two days off work, today they get there and you can't get back. It's absolutely crazy," before McCoist added: "It's madness, isn't it? I don't know what they're thinking."

West Ham United fans set for brutal Newcastle United trip

Julen Lopetegui will be under severe pressure to secure a positive result at St James' Park more than ever, with many fans likely to make the lengthy trip up to Newcastle on Monday.

Concerns are growing over the current manager, especially amongst the passionate fanbase, and a dreadful performance after hours of travelling could be the final straw for many.

The Hammers are certainly not expected to win the clash, with Eddie Howe's men unbeaten in their last three matches in all competitions, but Lopetegui's side need to show some fight on the road.

Julen Lopetegui is off to a rocky start at West Ham United. (Credit: Imago)

With just three wins from their first 11 matches, the Irons are sitting just three points above the relegation zone, and there is a lack of patience at the London Stadium right now.

History would suggest that the Hammers are in for a tough night at St James' Park but Lopetegui has no other choice but to lead his players to a positive performance away from home.

In other West Ham news, sources have shared a January transfer update on Chris Rigg as the Hammers eye a new deal.

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West Ham United

Ally McCoist

Newcastle United

Jeff Stelling