From a West Ham perspective, the more teams dragged into a relegation scrap, the better. But there may be a silver lining to Leeds United’s win at Old Trafford.
On 36 points, the Yorkshire club now look like they need just one more win and perhaps a draw to secure safety. That would effectively reduce the fight for the final relegation spot to three clubs — West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur.
Leeds safety could still play into West Ham hands
There is, however, an interesting angle to consider.
West Ham face Leeds on the final day of the season at the London Stadium. If Leeds are already safe by then, it could change the dynamic of that fixture entirely.
It’s not ideal, but facing a side with nothing riding on the result does have its advantages.
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Distractions could become a factor
West Ham’s next Premier League opponent are in precisely that position as the Hammers head into next Mondays game.
Crystal Palace effectively secured their safety with a win over Newcastle United, allowing them to shift focus towards their Europa Conference League campaign.
Leeds find themselves in a similar position, still involved in the FA Cup after knocking West Ham out nine days ago.
FA Cup run may impact Leeds focus
Daniel Farke’s side now face Chelsea in the semi-final at Wembley.
Chelsea will go in as favourites, but from what we’ve seen, Leeds are capable of causing problems for anyone on their day. Liam Rosenior is looking more and more vulnerable in the Stamford Bridge hotseat and his team are far from convincing.
If Leeds were to reach the final — it raises questions about how much they’ll have left for a league game that may no longer matter to them.
Clutching at straws or realistic scenario?
Maybe this is clutching at straws after Leeds’ result at Old Trafford.
But the picture is becoming clearer.
If West Ham are to stay in the Premier League this season, it increasingly feels like Tottenham could be the side who drop instead.