Bilic’s job is seen by many as being under threat after a poor first third of the season.
West Ham United co-chairman David Sullivan has told the club’s official website that the whole club and fanbase must unite in support of Slaven Bilic as the Croatian manager looks to turn their fortunes around.
Bilic’s job has been the subject of much speculation as a result of the Hammers’ abject start to the season, and rumours that the club hierarchy could be losing patience with him reached new heights after the 5-1 home defeat to London rivals Arsenal.
That loss left them in 17th place, just a single point outside the relegation zone, and mired in a dismal run of form which has seen them fail to win any of their last six games, losing four.
However, as speculation over Bilic mounts, reports have spread this week that the board will continue to back to the beleaguered manager.
Now, Sullivan has clarified the club’s position by insisting that now is the time for everyone connected with West Ham to rally behind the manager.
He wrote on the club’s website: “I saw Slaven’s comments after the game and as always he was completely honest with his assessment. Slaven cares passionately about the football club and this defeat will be hurting him as much as anyone. I have no doubts that he is doing everything he can to address the situation and everyone is working together to ensure we turn our season around.
“We cannot forget the amazing job that Slaven did in his first season at the club. With a bit more luck he could have taken us into the top four. His passion, commitment and outstanding track record at the highest level were among the many reasons we appointed Slaven in the summer of 2015.
“Despite what some people have said, there is still a great spirit among the players and everyone is working towards the same objective. We all need to stick together and get behind the team. We are all part of the West Ham United family and in hard times families pull together.
“I and my family feel the same frustration and disappointment as you when we lose, and the same joy and elation when we win. It is the same for my fellow Board members. West Ham is in our blood, just as it is in yours. We all want the same for our fantastic club, and together we are stronger. Only by remaining united can we turn things around.”
Sullivan raises a valid point about Bilic’s success last season, but if there’s one thing for sure it is that Sullivan, David Gold and co. absolutely cannot afford for West Ham to be relegated this season.
The co-owners appear to have faith in Bilic to turn things around at this stage, but if things do not improve, it will become a question of how long they are prepared to wait before the Croatian’s position become untenable.
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