Ex-West Ham star reveals dressing room information that he can’t make public

West Ham’s team morale has been questioned on multiple occasions this season.

Nuno Espirito Santo has faced criticism for the character that his players have shown since he arrived at the London Stadium in September.

Performances and effort have not been at the standard, but West Ham’s 2-1 win over Tottenham on Saturday could be a turning point.

Supporters have directed their ire at David Sullivan and Karren Brady for poor decisions made over the years, as letting Vladimir Coufal leave in the summer was another choice that was questioned.

Vladimir Coufal at West Ham
Credit: Imago

Vladimir Coufal says West Ham relegation would be ‘unacceptable’

West Ham‘s goal is to stay in the Premier League this year, with relegation posing significant ramifications.

The Hammers could do with more players like Coufal, as the defender was always somebody who would put his body on the line for his teammates.

The right-back is now playing in the Bundesliga with Hoffenheim after West Ham decided against renewing his contract in the summer.

While speaking on talkSPORT this Tuesday, Coufal weighed in on the Irons’ current situation and hinted that there might be more to the eye than what’s on the surface at West Ham.

Coufal said: “It’s difficult for me to rate the situation right now as I’m not in the changing room. I have some information, but I can’t make it public.

“I really believe that this Tottenham booster will keep them up. West Ham do not deserve to get relegated, it’s unacceptable for me.”

Coufal was an integral part of West Ham’s changing rooms, and the Hammers look like they miss the 33-year-old each day.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is making West Ham miss Coufal

Sullivan’s decision not to hand Coufal a new deal at E20 was always going to be controversial, due to the love that fans had for the full-back.

However, it was clearly a choice that was made with the Czech Republic international’s age in mind.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is 28-years-old and is five years younger than Coufal. But sometimes it’s more than just age.

Matches (starts)Possession lost per 90Big chances createdAverage rating
13 (12)12.516.55
Wan-Bissaka’s stats this season, according to Sofascore

Wan-Bissaka’s tacking is great, but his defensive awareness has cost the Hammers more often than not this campaign. The right-back has also offered little going forward, and a massive hole has been left in the absence of Coufal.

The Hammers need more leaders in the dressing room, and supporters will have to hope that Coufal’s suggestions are nothing too serious.

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