Key Leeds United rivals West Ham gave themselves a huge boost in their quest for Premier League survival on Friday night.
West Ham boss Nuno Espirito Santo insists nothing has changed in in his side’s battle for Premier League survival despite a huge boost in their fight with Leeds United, Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest to stay up.
The Hammers began the weekend sat third-bottom in the division’s relegation zone, just one point behind fourth-bottom Tottenham Hotspur, three behind fourth-bottom Nottingham Forest and four points adrift of fifth-bottom Leeds.
The Irons, though, were presented with a huge chance to make big inroads as they played first on Friday night with a home clash against bottom-of-the-table Wolves.
Tottenham, meanwhile, visit Sunderland on Sunday afternoon in new boss Roberto De Zerbi’s first game in charge whilst Forest host Aston Villa at the same time, both in 2pm kick-offs.
Irons boss Santo, though, insists Friday night’s win does not alter anything in the battle for survival, the Hammers boss pointing out that his team play last next week but admitting that his men’s fortunes at the London Stadium will be key.
“It doesn't change anything, next week we play after all the opponents,” said the Hammers boss as quoted by the Standard.
“So we have to focus on ourselves, and today we did the job. This is what we have to do.
“It's going to be a long week, a good week in terms of energy, and then prepare for Crystal Palace.”
“Going to be key for us”
Speaking to West Ham United’s official website, Santos said: “Even though the game didn't start well in the first half, we lost possession of the ball, we were not really compact and allowed lines.
“I think the [first] goal comes in the right moment. The boys settled down, composure on the second half, the way we play moving forward, do our work, off the ball, was very, very good.
“I think all of us deserve a night like this, especially our fans. Even in the first half, the support that they give to us.
“London Stadium is going to be key for us, so we cannot thank them enough.”
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