Ally McCoist hesitates over new West Ham United verdict after Aston Villa defeat
Ally McCoist struggled to find his words as he was quizzed by Jeff Stelling for his prediction on West Ham United’s 2024/25 campaign.
The Hammers opened the new Premier League season with a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at the London Stadium, ironically conceding a winner to Jhon Duran, who has been linked with a move this summer.
Despite the opening-day loss, there are plenty of reasons for positivity after Julen Lopetegui added several signings to his squad this summer, even if only one new signing was in the starting XI.
Speaking live via talkSPORT on Monday (19 August, 9:28am) – asked by Stelling if he saw any signs of encouragement – McCoist said: “It’s fairly early… I wouldn’t… They’re still…
Stelling quickly butted in, stating: “You’re hesitating so much so that means no.”
In disagreement, McCoist said: “West Ham will be absolutely fine. The fans want a different style of football, so I’m going to give them five or six games before making a judgement.
“I’m looking forward to seeing if there’s a completely different style of football.”
Julen Lopetegui to aim for success at West Ham United
Following a disappointing final campaign under David Moyes’ guidance, fans at the London Stadium will be expecting much better from the new manager this season.
With several new faces added to the squad, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo in defence, Guido Rodriguez in midfield, plus Niclas Fullkrug, Crysencio Summerville and Luis Guilherme in attack.
Signing free agent Wes Foderingham makes it eight signings for the Spaniard, who only entered the London Stadium earlier this summer, and the team will still be learning the new playing style.
Many eyebrows were raised when Lopetegui was announced as the new head coach, and he will need to prove himself in front of the home crowd, but his playing style along with the new players should help boost the Irons up the Premier League table.
With no European football to worry about this season, fans will certainly be frustrated if their club finishes outside the top six again.
In other West Ham news, Richard Keys ripped into “awful” Arsenal, hailing the Hammers as the example to follow.
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.