David Moyes reacts as West Ham United sack news emerges this week
David Moyes has dismissed reports stating his position as West Ham United manager has come under recent pressure and claimed his relationship with David Sullivan has not deterred, as he spoke to the press on Thursday (29 December).
The Hammers continued where they left off prior to the World Cup against Arsenal, slumbering to a 3-1 defeat after taking an early lead through Said Benrahma.
Growing discontent among the fanbase was evident during the team’s tenth loss from just 16 games this season, and the defeat was followed by reports stating Moyes might be sacked before their home match against Bournemouth on January 7.
Speaking to the press on Thursday, and reported via by Football Daily, the Scot shut down reporters who questioned if his position had become untenable, and claimed his relationship with the board was still strong.
“I’ve got great support from David Sullivan, so, at the moment, I’d say your sources are not correct,” he said.
“I’m not daft, you’re always under pressure as a football manager.”
Pressure mounting
How much longer Moyes can withstand the growing calls for his head is yet to be seen, but the team must start winning football matches and climb the Premier League table.
Considering the Scot was given £150 million to spend in the summer, and he subsequently snapped up the likes of Brazilian playmaker Lucas Paqueta and Gianluca Scamacca, the club’s demise this season comes as a huge surprise.
It is his resistance to change formation or personnel that will frustrate supporters the most, as his side labour from one loss to another on a weekly basis.
The Hammers’ home clash against Brentford (Friday 30 December) could prove to be Moyes’ death knell if he fails to pick up three points as the relegation zone draws ever closer.
Moyes is treading water in East London right now, and below the surface, the weeds are becoming more tangled with every despairing loss.