Paul Merson has noted in his Sportskeeda column that West Ham United must beat Wolves on Saturday if David Moyes is to secure the Irons a place in next term’s Champions League.
The Hammers have enjoyed a sensational start to the season to sit third in the table after 11 games. They are also only three-points behind Chelsea, and level with Manchester City.
West Ham could overtake the Citizens into second-place by winning at Molineux, with Pep Guardiola’s side playing on Sunday. Having beat Liverpool before the international break.
Merson believes West Ham deserved to beat Liverpool 3-2 at the London Stadium earlier this month. Also dealing the Reds their first defeat in the Premier League so far this term.
The result showed the progress West Ham have made since Moyes returned to the helm in December 2019. And their form is giving the Irons belief they can claim a top-four finish.
“West Ham United have been outstanding this season in the Premier League and are coming on the back of a deserved victory against Liverpool,” Merson wrote.
“They are starting to believe they can secure a top-four finish, and it just goes to show how far they’ve come under David Moyes.
“Considering how well West Ham have done so far, these are the games you have to win to secure a UEFA Champions League spot, with all due respect to Wolves.
“I expect them to get three points once again and keep their good run of form going.”
Can West Ham qualify for the Champions League this season?
West Ham will be targeting Champions League qualification, given their results so far in the Premier League this season. And will likely end the weekend inside the top-four regardless.
The Hammers hold a three-point lead over fifth-place Arsenal, but also a 10-goal advantage on goal difference. Held entirely through goals scored, with both teams allowing 13 so far.
West Ham’s strong start to the season also follows a sixth-place finish last term that sealed Europa League qualification. The Irons had never featured in the group stage prior to the current campaign, yet top Group H after four unbeaten games.
All the while eliminating both Manchester United and City from the Carabao Cup to reach the quarter-final against Tottenham Hotspur. Showing just how far Moyes has taken West Ham since replacing Manuel Pellegrini with the club only a point above the relegation zone.
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