David Moyes could face West Ham United fan backlash amid recent Declan Rice development
David Moyes has had a roller-coaster time in the West Ham dugout after his spells at the likes of Everton and Manchester United.
There were times last season when it seemed that he would be losing his job, only for the Scot to turn things around and deliver a European trophy.
And the roller-coaster journey has continued into the new campaign, with the Hammers flying high early on, only to lose their last three matches.
The boss has the chance to get fans back on his side when West Ham host London rivals Arsenal in the League Cup round of 16 on Wednesday (1 November).
But the man in the dugout may just have shot himself in the foot in the build-up to the clash with his comments about former Hammers captain Declan Rice.
The midfield maestro could be in for an emotional return to the London Stadium if he is handed minutes by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, having joined the Gunners in the summer.
As per the official West Ham website (31 October), Moyes is hoping his former midfielder doesn’t play, but he is hoping the England international is welcomed back “with open arms.”
Such a comment may not bode well with a section of Hammers supporters, with many fans of the East London club undoubtedly still upset that Rice opted to leave in the summer, particularly for a city rival.
Many West Ham supporters will, of course, take the side of their manager, with Rice definitely deserving a warm welcome after what he did in claret and blue. But a generous reception may not be in store from everyone attending the match at the London Stadium.
In other West Ham news, Hammers scouts are in action already with a new South American transfer on the cards in January.