West Ham United: David Moyes and Tim Steidten relationship update amid conflict rumours
West Ham pair David Moyes and Tim Steidten’s relationship has come under scrutiny after reports emerged of a divide between the pair, but Sean Whetstone has moved to squash those rumours.
The West Ham news source updated fans to confirm that the two speak before every game, while Steidten also speaks to the players and coaches during the pre-match warmup at every game.
A report from The Guardian in the summer shared that the two were involved in an ongoing power struggle with tension growing, and there have since been rumours swirling about their relationship.
Whetstone wrote on his Twitter page [27 December]: “To those that who suggest that David Moyes and Tim Steidten do not get on with each other: Tim comes out to speak David Moyes, coaches and players pre-match warm-up at every West Ham game.
“This is a photo of them pre-match warm-up at the London Stadium before the Manchester United game.”
Rebuilding bridges
Those initial reports of conflict between the senior figures at the London Stadium came during the transfer window, where Moyes would usually have control over the incoming players, but Steidten’s role as the Technical Director had seen the manager’s role change.
There were separate reports surrounding disagreements over transfer targets, with Moyes keen on players with Premier League experience while Steidten looked for investments from abroad, although they each got their way with the likes of James Ward-Prowse and Mohammed Kudus both brought in.
The compromises over transfer targets appeared to be the beginning of a resolution to their disputes, and having worked together in the months since then the relationship appears to have continued to grow.
With the January transfer window approaching, they will again be tested to work together on both incoming and outgoing deals at the London Stadium, but the evidence of their improved relationship is clear and should put an end to ongoing speculation.
In other West Ham news, Moyes has provided a double injury update.