AdminWest Ham United’s survival hopes could hinge on what happens at St James’ Park on Sunday afternoon, with Nuno Espírito Santo’s side running out of opportunities to save their Premier League status.
The Hammers head to Newcastle knowing that only a victory will realistically keep the pressure on Tottenham and drag them out of the relegation zone, at least temporarily, before Spurs play on Tuesday.
Three points on Tyneside would lift West Ham above their London rivals by a single point in what has become a tense and desperate fight for survival.
Nuno delivered a surprisingly positive injury update ahead of the trip, with only Adama Traore ruled out through a muscle problem. Although Traore has largely been used from the bench this season, his absence leaves West Ham short of attacking options at a time when every moment could prove decisive.
There is also a growing feeling that the Spaniard may already have played his final match for the club.
Newcastle, meanwhile, have problems of their own. According to reports from Chronicle Live, the Magpies have been “rocked” by a late training-ground injury, while Fabian Schar and Tino Livramento remain sidelined with ankle and groin issues respectively.
As Gonzo reported yesterday, “Antony Gordon is reportedly fit but expected to miss out amid growing uncertainty surrounding his future at St James’ Park.”
Those fine margins could yet work in West Ham’s favour. With Chelsea facing Tottenham just days after their FA Cup final, the Hammers simply have to win and take the survival battle into the final weekend of the season.
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