“Poor selection. Poor discipline and…..” The three core ISSUES why West Ham is struggling and Lopetugi is not the BEST fit for West Ham

West Ham’s Woeful Performance: A Symptom of Deeper Issues

Martin Treasure

October 19, 2024

West Ham United’s embarrassing 4-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur has left fans reeling. The Hammers’ second-half collapse, coupled with Mohammed Kudus’ red card, exposed the team’s glaring deficiencies in selection, discipline, and leadership.

Lopetegui’s Tactical Missteps

Julen Lopetegui’s starting lineup raised eyebrows, particularly the inclusion of Lucas Paquetá, who struggled throughout. Michail Antonio, visibly exhausted, should have been replaced earlier. Paquetá’s retention, despite being on a yellow card and losing possession repeatedly, baffled fans.

“Who’d have thought that Lucas Paquetá would be a liability in his current circumstance and should have been sitting this one out?”

“Who’d have thought Michail Antonio would run out of steam and be walking by halftime?”

The half-time changes came too late, allowing Spurs to score three goals before the substitutes could make an impact. This delay has sparked debate about Lopetegui’s ability to adapt and make timely decisions.

Midfield Vulnerabilities

The midfield was overwhelmed, with Soucek’s performance drawing criticism:

“Erik Dreier: ‘Very strange, not mentioning Soucek…as always totally missing in the first half, too slow – not winning duels.'”

John Ayris suggested an alternative midfield setup:

“Why not play Bowen central with Kudus right and Summerville left instead of including Antonio?”

Transfer Missteps

Dave criticized the club’s transfer policy:

“Stietden has a lot to answer for. We were desperate for a new forward and he wasted 50m on an unknown Brazilian kid who looks out of place for the U21’s and another old German crock who’s been at the club for nearly 4 months and not played a game.”

Fan Frustration

Supporters have taken to social media to express their discontent:

• Chris Falzon: “Having given JL the benefit of the doubt at first, it’s becoming clearer than glass he definitely is not the best person for WHU!!!”
• Bennyboy Baker: “Unless Loopy Lop makes changes, we are in trouble.”
• LORD ROBERT VENOUR: “Lopo needs sacking; he hasn’t got a clue what’s his best team.”

Calls for Lopetegui’s Sacking

The defeat has intensified demands for Lopetegui’s removal:

• David Moyes: “The geezer is drowning and needs sacking ASAP.”
• Hammer Ed: “We are dropping down the league faster than a sex worker’s knickers. The manager needs to report to Brady for a quick consultation.”
• Clacton Rd Iron: “Look at the players we have – vastly overrated = Paquetá, Kilman, Emerson & Tobido. Look at the players who are nowhere near Premiership standard = Soucek, Rodriguez, Antonio, & Areola.”

West Ham’s woes continue, with fans searching for answers. Will Lopetegui rectify the situation, or is his tenure nearing its end?

Key Takeaways:

• West Ham suffers 4-1 defeat to Tottenham.
• Lopetegui’s tactics criticized.
• Paquetá and Antonio’s performances questioned.
• Kudus’ red card adds to concerns.
• Fans demand Lopetegui’s sacking.
• Transfer policy and midfield vulnerabilities under scrutiny.

Sources:

• Claret & Hugh
• West Ham News