As Claret & Hugh has been reporting since West Ham’s 0-0 draw with Everton, the next two games will be make-or-break for Hammers head coach Julen Lopetegui.
Guardian journalist Jacob Steinberg, who has excellent contacts within West Ham, has confirmed what C&H reported last week: if Lopetegui loses against Arsenal and Newcastle, his position will become untenable.
First up is Monday night’s tough fixture against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, where Eddie Howe’s team will welcome back several first-team players from injury. West Ham will then face Arsenal in the London Derby at home, an incredibly tough game against Mikel Arteta’s title chasers.
Currently 14th in the Premier League, back-to-back losses could see the Hammers drop to 16th, creating a significant gap between them and the clubs in 13th and above.
The Hammers board would then be forced to act swiftly to prevent the team from being cast adrift with the bottom clubs in the division.
