West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui says he is keen to repay the fans with a big win over Tottenham this weekend.
The Hammers have been struggling with injuries in recent weeks, with the likes of Niclas Fullkrug and other international faces facing fitness tests ahead of the Premier League’s return.
It has not been the best start to a campaign for the East London side, who have just two wins from their opening seven matches.
But a win over Spurs would lift them above their rivals in the table, which will provide fresh motivation for the visitors.
Speaking to the media ahead of the game, Lopetegui said: “I think Ange changed a lot of things in their team.
“In my opinion, he made their players and team better and that’s why I like to see this team.
Julen is speaking to the press ahead of Saturday’s match with Spurs 🗣️
— West Ham United (@WestHam) October 17, 2024
“They work together. But we have to put the focus on us and have an answer because we have to be on it to get the win.
“Our fans will demand the best from us and this is a good thing.
“They support us always, so we have to be ready to play well, be a strong and solid team and to beat them there. It’s not easy, but we will try to do it.”
Will Fullkrug out, Lopetegui will be relying on the liked of Mohammed Kudus and Jarrod Bowen to step up in his absence to provide West Ham’s attacking threat.
Lopetegui is a big fan of Kudus in particular and is excited to see him develop even further during his time in charge.
He added: “He’s a good player and our player and we use him as we feel.
“He can improve on a lot of things like every player, but he is working hard and has very good commitment every day and we are happy with him for sure.”
