Is the season over yet? Nearly? Okay, good. The stark reminder came from the commentary team during the Liverpool game that West Ham are not yet mathematically safe from relegation. It’s not going to happen. But it still just makes you shudder a little bit. Especially when you remember we’re playing Ipswich on the last day of the season.
This isn’t Graham Potter’s claret and blue army, yet. I’m nearly sure of it. This is the lingering hangover from the Lopetegui era, and the summer will be the Alka-Seltzer. It doesn’t feel fair to lay too much blame on anyone currently at the club (chairman excluded).
Trusting the Process under Potter
The manager is picking up the slack and he’s got good credentials that I think the fans trust in. He’s not a miracle worker, he’s building what is hopefully for the long term good. The players have somewhat improved from the first half of the season, but with the position we’re in they know they’re safe, and they also know there’s nothing further up the table to play for.
Not to say they’re on the beach just yet, but mentally I think they’re probably checked out. There have been times where I’d say that’s unacceptable – the fans have paid to be at the game, they’ve taken time out of their days to support the team. But the vibe I’m getting isn’t so much of anger – it’s just like players, fans, management are all just breathing out a big huff and asking when we can clock out for summer.
Signs of Competence and Future Hope
Against Liverpool, there were some signs of competence. The second half was alright, and the latter stages were actually a bit exciting. The young players coming through are giving hope for next season, and there are a few consistent players that the team can be built around – Wan-Bissaka, Bowen, Ward-Prowse, even Soucek.
It’s not all doom and gloom. But in typical West Ham fashion, we’re just looking to take the next step and to not make it look so difficult.
Predicting the Final Run-In
In our next three fixtures, I’m going to say we’ll get three points. I’ve learnt not to predict where those three points are coming from – it could be one win, it could be three draws. The pressure is off Southampton. Away to Brighton would be a rare win. Spurs at home, who knows what teams will turn up?
Hope for the best, expect the worst. I’m pretty sure that’s on our crest this season.
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