From the rhetoric and criticism thrown at Lopetegui’s West Ham, you’d imagine the club were in a relegation battle in March, not just early season, mid September, four games into the season.
There are signs that the squad are already feeling the pressure from the high expectations placed upon the team from supporters and the ‘old regime’ die-hards. Perhaps it is time to ratchet down the criticism, just September after all and we have more points than this time last year.
So, let’s take a breath. And try to allow our Head Coach and gifted squad the time it takes to gel. I have always thought: ‘See where we are at Christmas‘.
By all means criticise but let’s drop the hysteria – it spreads: Take the interview on whufc.com with Edson Alvarez after Saturday’s draw with Fulham:
Whilst ‘El Machin’ talks frankly about the new recruits growing into a team: “I have lots of good teammates, and I know regardless of who’s playing, they’ll be up to the task. The longer the season goes on, the more chemistry we’ll build up, so we’re confident of success.”
Elsewhere in his comments, though, the signs of pressure are there: “It’s not been an easy start, but in England every game feels like a final. Next up we have Chelsea, which will be tough as well, but we’ll be confident playing at our home ground, where the fans will be right behind us.”
That sounds to me like Alvarez is feeling the pressure to perform- just a little bit too much?
It is difficult to give of your best when there is so much hype, scrutiny and pressure, for so long. Time for the coaching staff to ratchet down and shelter the squad from unrealistic expectations, and us all to support the team and – try if we can- to enjoy watching their development.
There is a top team there, but they just need to find their way. Support them, criticise of course – and I do – but allow Lopetegui and his team the space and time they need to get going. Anyone shouting for a new coach already maybe needs to find a new club instead!