Tony Cottee makes Arsenal title wish as he shares what West Ham United must now do
Tony Cottee hopes West Ham United will “give it a go” at the Etihad Stadium against Manchester City in David Moyes’ farewell match on Sunday (19 May).
Speaking on talkSPORT [17 May, 08:37], Hammers legend Cottee acknowledged how difficult the task is for Moyes’ side to get anything to show for their finale, as City bear down on a fourth-straight Premier League title – but wants his former team to give it everything.
As Moyes departs and Julen Lopetegui prepares to take the reins as the club’s first-ever head coach, the final hurrah couldn’t be anymore of a challenge with City requiring one more win to get over the line.
Any result from West Ham allows Arsenal to step in with victory over Everton at the Emirates.
“It’s going to be very difficult for the players. They’re in ninth place and can’t go up a place or down,” Cottee began, having outlined his wish for Arsenal to pip City to top spot.
“It’s the end of the season and the manager’s leaving, so it’s difficult to see West Ham getting a point.
“If City get an early goal, it’s even tougher. But the one thing we say about the Premier League is it’s very honest. You’d like to think they will go and give it a go. As long as they do that, everyone will be happy.”
How will West Ham United’s mentality be at Manchester City?
Amid much discussion surrounding West Ham’s approach to this weekend, the general consensus is that they will graft, be organised, and look to take their rare opportunities.
Granted, if the Hammers had anything to play for league-wise rather than looking to give Moyes a continued high after last weekend’s win over Luton Town, things might be somewhat different.
But, like Cottee says, they are marooned in ninth and will finish there – five places higher than last year, albeit when the club completed their Europa Conference League run.
Gabby Agbonlahor and Ray Parlour both played down the visitors’ chances of getting anything against Pep Guardiola’s record hunters, while only the most ambitious – particularly a few of an Arsenal persuasion – are holding out any hope of West Ham giving City the same sort of game QPR did at the Etihad 12 years ago on that final day.
Having said that, City of course still eventually got the win. The Premier League can shock you when you least expect it – maybe ask David Moyes at 6pm on Sunday.
In other West Ham news, a fresh prediction is made on Lucas Paqueta’s future at the club.
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