17th August 2025 Mark Carlaw (@markcarlaw)
West Ham’s collapse at Sunderland yesterday understandably has many fearing the worst for this season.
It was supposed to be a day where the team could showcase what has been accomplished throughout this summer and pre-season, with hope that an assured display and result would settle nerves and breath belief that we are in for a much calmer and more successful season.
In the first 45 minutes at the Stadium of Light, which ended goalless, it somewhat felt that way – with West Ham producing some good spells and encouraging passages of play. However, any encouragement was extinguished with a second half display that showcased a team facing a long and torrid season once again.
Losing 3-0 to a newly promoted side has alarm bells ringing, with our insider ExWHUEmployee expressing his disappointment and concerns.
“What a disappointing result,” stated Ex after the match. “It was always going to be tough playing a new promoted team because the fans are up for it and in the first half I thought we played well.
“The second half however we capitulated and despite playing 5 at the back and a new keeper, we are still very vulnerable at the back. This coupled with a lack of creativity was hopefully a massive eye opener.
“We still need a a few new players and hopefully this terrible result pushes the club into making that happen.”
I expressed my feelings also after the game, with a growing sense that the worst fears for the season ahead seemingly looking far more like a realistic possibility.There is clearly a much bigger problem at our club than just one person. Graham Potter must take responsibility for yesterday but ultimately the problems run far deeper.
A worrying and dark time. The final weeks of this transfer window will dictate whether we stay up this season,