Julen Lopetegui Assesses West Ham’s Performance, Highlights Team’s Drive for Improvement

West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui, speaking to BBC Sport, reflected on the team’s recent performance: “We were very close to winning against a very good team. That is why when you are very close there is frustration to lose these two points. But there are positives against a very demanding team in Bournemouth.” Regarding the impressive first-half display, Lopetegui commented, “We deserved to score. In the second half we knew they were going to push more and they did. I prefer to be positive and look forward.” Addressing questions about a potential shift in momentum, the manager stated, “We deserved to win at Leicester. In this game we did well too. Above all, I want to highlight the behaviour of the group. All the players want to work very hard to do their best for the team. This is the first step to being a stronger and better team. We are going to keep this positive mentality.” **Statistical Note:** Lucas Paqueta has successfully converted all five penalties he has taken for West Ham in the Premier League. Three of his last four goals in the competition have come from the penalty spot.