West Ham United are in the midst of a woeful run of results, and currently sit in the relegation zone.
Tony Cottee
Former Hammers striker Tony Cottee has had his say on his former club’s struggles when speaking live on Sky Sports Now this morning at 10:12 am, and insists the players cannot keep using their new stadium’s unfamiliar feel as an excuse for poor performances.
Slaven Bilic’s side are a shadow of the team that were so impressive last term, and they currently sit 18th in the Premier League after just one win and five losses from their opening six league games.
Cottee discussed how playing in their new London Stadium home is having an obvious effect on the players, but refused to accept it is a viable excuse for their drop in performance levels, telling Sky Sports:
West Ham fans
“It’s a new challenge for everyone. I actually like the new stadium, I think going forward, it is the right move for the club. I think what happens is when visiting teams come to the new stadium, it’s a new experience for them, and they raise their game. Particularly with the London Stadium, it’s like a cup final, it’s like going to Wembley. That’s going to be an issue for the club. You can point to the new stadium and make excuses, but it’s about time the players took responsibility and sorted things out.”
The Hammers were second best in every department yesterday against a Southampton side who had everything that the Londoners are severely lacking at present.
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic
A strong team ethic, organisation and a game-plan executed to perfection – the Saints’ display was reminiscent of some of the performances that West Ham produced last season away from home.
Bilic somehow needs to reinvigorate his side, and find a way to ensure they pick up points sooner rather than later.
The Croatian has received criticism this season for some of the signings he made throughout the summer, and by adding depth to the West Ham squad, rather than improving the first XI, it seems as though they have failed to make any progress, and have actually gone backwards.
The Hammers next game in the Premier League is a home fixture against Middlesbrough on Saturday, and nothing less than a victory will be required.
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic with empty seats behind him
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