Nuno Espirito Santo explains West Ham United’s return to a back four ahead of a final day meeting with Leeds in which the first goal could be key.
The Hammers must beat Daniel Farke’s Leeds at the London Stadium while hoping that David Moyes does his old employers an almighty favour at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
A damaging defeat by Newcastle last time out means Spurs have a two point lead over West Ham United in 18th going into Sunday’s final matchday.
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Would you have made the same changes?
Nuno Espirito Santo makes three changes from that St James’ loss. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Jean-Clair Todibo and Callum Wilson all drop out as Kyle Walker-Peters, Pablo Felipe and Taty Castellanos return.
This means the Hammers will start with a back four following two successive defeats – against Arsenal and Newcastle – in which Todibo started alongside Konstantinos Mavropanos and Axel Disasi in a defensive triumvirate.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Jean-Clair Todibo dropped by West Ham United
Speaking to Sky Sports a few moments before kick-off, Nuno Espirito Santo explained the thinking behind his change of shape while demanding a fast start from a West Ham outfit who must go for the jugular.
“There’s always chances [to achieve our goals]. It’s been good, preparing the boys and we are ready to go,” Nuno said.
“Let’s see what happens. It’s the same approach that we have been trying; starting the game well, scoring the goal first. That can have a big impact on everything, so let’s see.
Nuno wants to make YOU proud – so where do you think we finish in the table when all is said and done on Sunday?!
“Definitely, the belief is there. I think we have been trying to use this [4-2-2-2] shape and getting good results. Sometimes we need another [defender], but [while] being positive and trying to defend well.
“It won’t be easy. Leeds are a good team, they come here fighting for the game.
“We want to score as soon as possible, that’s the reality. But we have to be ready for every scenario, fighting for every ball. Concentration will be the detail of this game. We always want to score first! That’s the reality.
“We prepared the team to try and win the game from the first to the last minute. It’s up to us to deliver. The supporters are going to be there. We have to give back.”
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