West Ham host Arsenal today in the Premier League’s late kick-off with a renewed sense of confidence.
After a difficult start to the season, Julen Lopetegui’s side claimed a much-needed 2-0 win over Newcastle on Monday night.
While the former Wolves coach still has a lot to prove, the victory did at least offer signs of improvement.
Captain Jarrod Bowen has targeted European qualification and given the congested nature of the Premier League this season, perhaps it really is a realistic possibility.
Even after having won only four of their opening 12 games, the Irons were only four points off the top seven by the time the action kicked off this weekend.
Still, following up the win against Newcastle with another three points today will be difficult.
Julen Lopetegui was given a yellow card against Newcastle
AFP via Getty Images
The Gunners appear to have turned a corner of late following a difficult run of their own. Mikel Arteta’s side beat Nottingham Forest 3-0 last weekend before thrashing Sporting CP 5-1 in the Champions League on Tuesday night, with the return of Martin Odegaard having seemingly transformed their fortunes.
West Ham will also be without their manager on the touchline for the London derby.
Why isn’t Julen Lopetegui managing West Ham vs Arsenal today?
Lopetegui was booked after 20 minutes at St James’ Park on Monday when protesting a decision.
As such, it took the Spaniard’s tally up to three yellow cards this season, meaning he will serve a one-match touchline ban against Arsenal.