West Ham United could soon challenge for Europe again in new prediction
West Ham United could soon be challenging for a European place in the Premier League, Martin Allen says.
The ex-Hammer believes Julen Lopetegui’s team will be back competing in the top half of the table after predicting them to beat Brighton on Saturday [21 December].
As things stand, the Irons are 14th after their 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Monday [16 December] and are eight points behind fifth-place Manchester City.
On his personal X account [17 December], Allen wrote: “West Ham to beat Brighton on Saturday and we are then back challenging for a European place.
“How exciting. Let’s have it.”
West Ham need something special for Premier League success
The Hammers will need to do something special for the rest of the season to get a European berth in the Premier League.
Tim Steidten strengthened the squad in the summer with some quality signings, and the London Stadium faithful had big expectations from the current campaign.
But Lopetegui has failed to bring the best out of the squad at his disposal, winning just five league fixtures at the East London club.
West Ham haven’t been convincing under the Spanish manager, and their two-game unbeaten streak will need to extend further if the Hammers want to keep hopes of a relatively successful Premier League season alive.
Brighton’s form has dwindled in recent weeks, and the Irons have reason to be confident going into the game.
The East London club then have Southampton away from home on Boxing Day, and Lopetegui will surely be expected to get the three points against a struggling Saints side.
While it looks unlikely that the Spanish manager will be able to get his team into Europe, anything is possible in football.
In other West Ham news, the top transfer target has been named after an approach for Evan Ferguson.
For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.