Even by West Ham standards the last 24 hours has produced a number of disturbing new stories which paint a bleak picture of the club.
Backstabbing, finger-pointing and a general toxicity is being reported as people within the clubs seemingly move their chess pieces into position ahead of the imminent departure of head coach Julen Lopetegui.
The one person to come out of the last few days with any credit at all is Lopetegui himself which is saying something considering he’s just been thrashed by Liverpool in the carabao cup.
Tim Steidten has been accused of trying to undermine the manager whilst trying to put as much distance between himself and the appointment as possible. In other stories various websites claim that the club are keeping a close eye on Steidten himself and he is under scrutiny following a summer transfer spend up.
And finally there is talk of a boardroom bust-up as the club seek new investment amidst whispers and rumour of mistrust in the club hierarchy.
It’s highly likely and in fact quite probable that’s some of these rumours are unfounded but I doubt very much that all of them are. Nonetheless a very unhealthy picture is being painted of West Ham at the moment and it cannot be a good place to work.
As a fan I’m absolutely gutted because despite the Promise and hope generated during pre-season it would appear that there is something rotten at the club. Some like Tony Cottee believe a young progressive manager is the answer to West Ham’s woes, personally I’m not so sure.
The Hammers currently have a feel bad Factor and as things stand I’m not entirely sure there is a necessary environment for anyone to thrive.
A victory today against Brentford is needed more than ever.