David Moyes takes charge of West Ham United for the first time at Watford on Sunday.
The expectations are being set quite low for David Moyes’ return to Premier League management.
The former Everton boss is tasked with lifting West Ham United out of the relegation zone and begins his reign when they make the short journey to Watford on Sunday.
His appointment has not been met with great excitement by Hammers supporters who are concerned about Moyes’ recent failed stints at Manchester United and Sunderland.
And the Scotsman’s methodical style of play is not going to win them over quickly.
West Ham will want an immediate impact from their new manager, but that does not have to mean victory at Watford this weekend. Tightening up in defence would be a start.
The Irons have the worst defensive record in the division with 23 goals conceded from 11 games, and 10 of those were in their last three top-flight outings under Slaven Bilic.
Moyes won’t bring fireworks to the London Stadium – he has always built his teams from the back – but he could bring stability if the demanding fans stay patient with his methods.
A clean sheet against Watford, who have stuck three past Liverpool and two past Arsenal at home already this season, should be seen as a success in Moyes’ first game.
Anything more is a bonus, but Stoke City showed that staying solid can be a winning recipe at Vicarage Road when they kept the Hornets quiet and pinched a 1-0 win in October.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
