Match Coverage

Relegation permutations – What West Ham need to happen to relegate Tottenham from the Premier League

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It all comes down to this for West Ham United as they look to overtake Tottenham in the Premier League table and condemn their rivals to a first relegation since 1977.  

The battle for survival in the Premier League has taken so many twists and turns this season, and there is time for yet another dramatic development. 

Nuno wants to make YOU proud – so where do you think we finish in the table when all is said and done on Sunday?!

A graphic showing Nuno Espirito Santo's quotes before West Ham's Premier League game with Leeds reading; "We know we represent a huge club, and we have to try and make our fans proud." Image shows Nuno Espirito Santo speaking during a West Ham United press conference.
Credit: Getty Images/Vince Mignott/MB Media

While West Ham remain strong favourites to get relegated on the final day of the season, there is hope for them with just one game to play. 

With that in mind, here’s a look at exactly what West Ham United need. 

West Ham must beat Leeds and hope Everton beat Tottenham

The scenario is simple, really.

West Ham need to beat Leeds and rely on Everton beating Tottenham to avoid being relegated for the first time since 2011.  

That is the only way in which the club can realistically keep their place in the Premier League table next season.  

Pretend you’re Nuno – what changes are you making ahead of Leeds? 👀

If anyone says keep the back five, I'll be shocked 😂

A graphic with the text reading: "Question - what changes should Nuno make against Leeds?" Image shows West Ham head coach Nuno Espirito Santo.
Credit: Getty Images/Tiego Grenho/MI News/NurPhoto

Spurs just need a point to ensure their safety, even if the Irons win.

The difference in goal difference is such that even if both teams finish on 39 points, West Ham will likely be relegated unless they win by at least 12 clear goals against Leeds

That has never happened before in Premier League history, so it would be fair to rule that prospect out entirely.

Jarrod Bowen of West Ham United during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal at London Stadium
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images

Meanwhile, West Ham will definitely be relegated if they do not beat Leeds regardless of what happens with Spurs.

Clearly, Spurs are in the driving seat and the most likely outcome remains that they stay up instead of West Ham.

Still, the idea of West Ham beating Leeds and Spurs losing to Everton is hardly completely out of the question. It may not be the likeliest of outcomes, but it’s at least feasible.

While one would rather control their own destiny heading into the final day of the season, West Ham are certainly not without hope.

Another dramatic day of action awaits.