West Ham host Arsenal on Sunday afternoon in a game where Arsenal are trying to get one step closer to the title, whilst were attempting to scramble out of the last escapeable relegation spot.
It is the be all or end all once again? It certainly seems to be. Should the worst-case scenario happen and a defeat occurs on Sunday, the Spuds will have a huge opportunity to increase their gap - a possible gap of four points - which means they’d have to be recouped by ourselves in two games; otherwise it’s kiss goodbye.
Whilst the Hammers must be focusing on themselves, that can only be said so much given that fortune needs to swing our way with Spurs. Only time will tell in that factor.
One benefit for West Ham, believe it or not, is the fact the game is at the London Stadium. In recent times, towards the backend of the season, fellow Hammers fans have made the bowl rock, and it has been a positive spirit increase from the players. Once we concede a goal away from home, it’s challenging to get back in it, but at the London Stadium, it appears we have more driving force, and momentum can be sparked easier when needed.
In terms of the uncontrolled variables? We have the foresaken Chris Kavanagh on the pitch making decisions, with the wonderful Darren England in charge for VAR and finally James Bell on the touchline controlling both Nuno’s and Arteta’s possible antics.
A game of wanders, a game of precious. The Hammers will have to be on point as Arsenal will likely stick to their guns and play their way whilst neutralising ourselves. In order to create a fighting chance for West Ham, Nuno will have to alternate something tactically or with the line-up; Arsenal’s defence is extremely complex to get through, and it takes a lot to beat Golden Glove winner David Raya.
What can be done? It’s impossible to fathom; the potential to drop Pablo is a variable that keeps being brought up, but whether it will happen or not, we will have to see.
This fixture is essentially do or die, unless both West Ham and Spurs are to lose, but once again, it is not something that should be relied upon.
The odds appear slim, but faith should continue to remain at an all-time high - besides, it’s only 1 point in it!
