Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Thu 2 April 2026 16:10, UK

West Ham United have lots to lose and gain over the next seven weeks, and the same can be said for plenty in Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad.

The Hammers are embroiled in the relegation battle, and they also have an FA Cup quarter-final against Leeds on the horizon.

Recent weeks have seen the Irons give themselves a real chance of survival, with crucial results against top sides. The point against Manchester City was especially needed.

There are just seven games left for the E20 outfit to keep their Premier League status.

Now, as West Ham’s run-in begins after the international break, West Ham Zone takes a look at three players that must end the season strong.

Jarrod Bowen and Mateus Fernandes competing for World Cup spots

Both Jarrod Bowen and Mateus Fernandes are on the periphery of their national team squads, with neither jumping out as guaranteed to make the World Cup.

Fernandes only recently made his Portugal debut over the international break just gone. Meanwhile, Bowen could only muster up two appearances from the bench.

The Hammers duo are two of Nuno’s most important players, and with them selfishly needing to impress their international head coaches, that could come to the benefit of West Ham.

Both players now have the added motivation of securing their seats on their nation’s plane to North America.

Keeping up their form and helping the Irons stay in the top flight may be enough for both Thomas Tuchel and Roberto Martinez to consider them even more.

Axel Disasi’s permanent move could rely on West Ham’s survival

The arrival of Axel Disasi has been monstrous for West Ham this season, and the Frenchman’s top performances must continue if he wants to stay enjoying his football in E20.

Disasi, after years of uncertainty at Chelsea, has finally found a club that values his qualities and views him as a key player.

However, Disasi may not stay if West Ham go down, an outcome nobody associated with the Hammers wants to happen.

For both the Irons and the French defender, they have plenty to gain from maintaining the East London side’s Premier League status.

Hopefully there is a lot more to see from Disasi in the claret and blue past this season.