AdminWest Ham United have made their intentions clear to the club’s leading players as preparations continue for life in the Championship, with the hierarchy determined to keep the core of the squad together and mount an immediate push for promotion.
There had been suggestions that some of the optimistic messages emerging from the club were part of a wider negotiating strategy as the Hammers looked to demonstrate their financial strength and long-term ambitions. However, recent developments indicate there is genuine substance behind those claims.
Virtually every update coming out of the club points towards a clear objective: building a squad capable of returning to the Premier League at the first attempt.
That determination was reinforced by comments relayed through a player’s representative, who told Claret & Hugh:
“Kretinsky has said he wants to keep everyone.”
The statement underlines the stance being taken by the club’s ownership as they seek to avoid a major squad breakup following relegation.
There is, however, an acceptance that not every player will remain. Some members of the squad are expected to attract interest from top-flight clubs, while others may feel their futures are best served elsewhere. West Ham are also unlikely to stand in the way of anyone who is determined to leave.
Nevertheless, the message to players and agents remains consistent. The club wants its key figures to stay, commit to one season in the Championship and help secure a swift return to the Premier League.
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