Moyes Suggests Lopetegui Needs Time at West Ham

David Moyes, the former West Ham manager, conveyed his belief that Julen Lopetegui, his successor, requires sufficient time to “settle things down” after a series of difficult outcomes early in his management period. Over their most recent four Premier League matches, the Hammers achieved home wins against Ipswich and Manchester United, but experienced away losses of 4-1 to Tottenham and 3-0 to Nottingham Forest. “I had a few defeats where we lost heavily at different times, so it happens for all managers,” Moyes commented on the BBC’s Football Daily podcast. He added, “I think the new manager coming in needs time and to be given that opportunity to set things the way he wants them to happen.” Moyes also noted, “They look as if they’re a bit more open than they’ve been before and more liable possibly to concede. But they’re desperately trying to score more goals as well.” Moyes further reflected on the team’s schedule, stating, “This time last year, I think we’d played about five or six more games than what they have just now, because we had the European competition to compete with as well. So the players there should be much fresher, bigger energy, showing that.” He concluded by emphasizing, “But I just think that the manager needs to be given an opportunity, a bit of time to settle things down. Sometimes players need to perform as well, they need to step up and show what they’re about. I’m sure a few of them can play better and show the manager exactly what they can do.”