It is fair to say Julen Lopetegui’s tenure at West Ham is very much in the balance.
While David Moyes’ time as manager had run its course by the end of last season, the arrival of Lopetegui was supposed to herald a new era at London Stadium, with technical director Tim Steidten allowed more of an input into transfers.
The result was a summer spend of almost £125m on new players amid an expectation of more expansive tactics and a place among the European contenders.
But star striker Niclas Fullkrug is yet to start a league game since his £27m arrival from Borussia Dortmund and is currently sidelined with an Achilles injury that could keep him out for a while yet.
Another expensive newcomer, £25.5m Brazilian Luis Guilherme, has managed two substitute appearances despite arriving with a huge reputation, and EFL player of the year Crysensio Summerville has managed one goal in 12 appearances, most of which have been as a substitute.
Amid massive speculation about his future, club sources have told me they are still 100% behind Lopetegui but that results have to improve.
The Hammers have some tough games ahead – a trip to Newcastle immediately after the international break and a London derby against Arsenal straight after that.
The pressure is on Lopetegui to deliver.
