Chris Sutton makes new sack claim in West Ham United v Wolves score prediction
Chris Sutton expects the clash between West Ham United and Wolves will “end badly” for Gary O’Neil on Monday evening.
Julen Lopetegui is facing another make-or-break clash with the Hammers – the result of the match against Wolves at the London Stadium [9 December] will ultimately decide his future.
However, despite the Spaniard being seemingly under more pressure than O’Neil, Sutton shared in his Premier League predictions for BBC Sport [9 December] that he believes the Wolves boss will be the one who suffers from the result of the clash.
He said: “This might end badly for Gary O’Neil and Wolves and, while we are not seeing the West Ham we expected from Lopetegui, he may live to fight another day.
“The last time Wolves went to London, at the end of November, they beat Fulham 4-1 and enjoyed themselves.
“I can’t see the same happening here though, because of the number of goals they are conceding. The way they play under O’Neil, they are so open.
“West Ham are going to get some chances and although they missed a few against Leicester, I am backing them to take them this time. Prediction: 3-1.”
Julen Lopetegui could survive West Ham United v Wolves
West Ham supporters will suffer from a case of deja vu in East London as Lopetegui’s tenure rests on a knife edge once again.
The Guardian reported on 20 November that the clashes against Newcastle United and Arsenal would be a must-win for him in securing his position at the London Stadium.
Lopetegui orchestrated a 2-0 win against Newcastle but suffered a humiliating 5-2 defeat against Arsenal, and yet David Sullivan never executed his dismissal – nor did he a few days on when losing to Leicester City.
However, the Hammers are doing their due diligence on potential replacements and have clarified the conditions required to appoint Max Allegri at the London Stadium should the managerial position become available [Calciomercato].
Regardless of the result on Monday, the Spaniard has broken his relationship with the supporters beyond repair as chants echoed around the King Power Stadium from the away support during the 3-1 loss against Leicester, calling for his removal.
A win against Wolves presents a catch-22 situation for the fanbase. On one hand, a victory would pull the Irons further away from the relegation zone but would also guarantee Lopetegui resumes his duties until the next crisis presents itself.
Nevertheless, the upcoming match at the London Stadium will be pivotal in deciding the future of West Ham.
In other West Ham news, Thomas Frank has been touted to move to the Hammers in a ‘mad’ new verdict.
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