Gary Lineker shares David Moyes sack verdict after West Ham decision
Gary Lineker believes West Ham United were right to stick by David Moyes and resist continuous calls to relieve him from his duties at the London Stadium.
The Sun reported on 6 April that the Scot was clinging onto his job at the London Stadium after the Hammers were beaten 5-1 by Newcastle United.
However, the board stuck by their man and the Hammers have enjoyed a good end to the 2022/23 season. Talking on Match of the Day, Lineker praised the board’s patience.
“I felt Brenden Rodgers had done enough to earn the right to keep Leicester up,” said Lineker (BBC Match of the Day, 29m 14s, 28 May).
“When you look at the teams that did stay up. Bournemouth kept their manager. Nottingham Forest kept their manager. West Ham kept David Moyes and they got rewarded for that.”
Vindicated
The board’s decision to stick by Moyes has been well and truly vindicated. We’ve seen Leeds, Southampton and Leicester all make managerial changes and fall into the Championship as a result. Everton also made a change, but only survived by the skin of their teeth on the final day.
For West Ham, there has to be significant improvement next season. The Hammers have a squad which is capable of competing near the top end of the table. The board won’t tolerate another poor domestic showing, particularly if they invest again during the off-season.
With Declan Rice set to depart, there could be a large sum of money available for Moyes once again. It’s absolutely vital he spends it wisely. A central midfielder – to replace Rice – a winger and a striker could well be required during the off-season.
It’s crucial Moyes gets off to a good start next season. The fans’ patience won’t last for too long if the Hammers struggle domestically.