By Peter Lynch

21st May, 2023 | 9:40am

Andy Dunn blasts West Ham United squad after behind-the-scenes footage emerges from Alkmaar

Journalist Andy Dunn has blasted the West Ham squad for their post-match celebrations in the Netherlands on Thursday (18 May).

The Hammers beat AZ Alkmaar 1-0 in their Europa Conference League semi-final second leg encounter.

The victory secured a 3-1 aggregate win for the English outfit, who will now meet Serie A side Fiorentina in the final next month.

But Dunn has complained about the scenes that followed the win on Thursday, with the Hammers players celebrating wildly in the changing room.

Many players shared footage of the celebrations on social media, much to the anger of Dunn, writing in the Sunday Mirror (page 67, 21 May).

Celebrations great to see

There really is no need to complain about this one. Did Dunn not see the AZ fans attacking the West Ham supporters? That may have been a more important issue to discuss.

It is definitely acceptable for a group of players to, firstly show emotion, and secondly share it with fans of the club, who really have been through a tough campaign in the Premier League.

It was a celebration of happiness, and that is exactly what supporters want to see. They want to see their heroes having fun after a hard-fought win, and also expressing their passion for the club.

Such celebrations will, of course, be taken to a whole new level should the Hammers go on to lift the trophy next month.

This squad may never get the chance to play in a European final again, so best believe that they will celebrate every moment that brings them closer to one.