Javier Hernandez targets ambitious Champions League qualification

Javier Hernandez has his sights set on the Champions League at the end of the new season – a far cry away from the struggles of last term.

The Hammers ended up finishing 13th in the Premier League in 2017/18, but they struggled throughout under the management of Slaven Bilic and then David Moyes.

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 29: Javier Hernandez of West Ham United is challenged by Fabian Delph of Manchester City during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Manchester City at London Stadium on April 29, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

It was a disappointing campaign for the club, with unrest from the fans something that was prominent, but it would appear the new manager and players new and old are targeting a major improvement this season, no one more so than Hernandez.

He said, as quoted by the club’s official website: “The club is doing well with improvements in all the areas, in the team, but also in all the staff they have brought in with the manager.

ROMFORD, ENGLAND – APRIL 27: Javier Chicharito Hernandez of West Ham United during Training at Rush Green on April 27, 2018 in Romford, England. (Photo by Arfa Griffiths/West Ham United via Getty Images)

“Top six, top four is the aim, as high as we can. I’m a dreamer. I work hard and my thoughts are always positive. I am always aiming as high as I can and if we can put West Ham in the Champions League why not? That’s the dream, that’s the idea and hopefully we can get it.”

That would certainly be an incredible feat in Pellegrini’s first season in charge, but it’s nice to hear players aiming high. One has to feel that a top half finish would perhaps be the more realistic target this term, and then perhaps a push for a Europa League place in 2019/2020.

SAMARA, RUSSIA – JULY 02: Javier Hernandez of Mexico prays prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Brazil and Mexico at Samara Arena on July 2, 2018 in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Fred Lee/Getty Images)

On a personal note, Hernandez will be hoping to improve his numbers this season, after failing to make the desired impact following his move from Bayer Leverkusen last year.

The Mexico international put on a decent showing at the World Cup, and will be hoping to kick on now and help fire the club up the Premier League table.