Roy Keane, known for his no-nonsense approach to football, has weighed in on West Ham’s challenges this season.
The former Manchester United captain expressed his belief that West Ham’s squad is “a tough group to manage.”
His comments come as the Hammers prepare to face Liverpool away, a fixture that could shape their season’s end.
Sympathy for Graham Potter’s Struggles at West Ham
Keane, speaking on Sky Sports, acknowledged the difficulty of managing West Ham under current boss Graham Potter.
Since his appointment in January, Potter has experienced a mixed run of results: three wins, three draws, and six losses.
Despite this, Keane has some sympathy for the manager, understanding the tough job he faces in trying to get the best out of the squad.
Keane’s Take on West Ham’s Potential and Inconsistency
Keane didn’t hold back in his analysis of the squad, pointing out that while individual players like Jarrod Bowen show promise with their pace, West Ham has struggled with consistency.
He believes the team has the talent to compete but often falls short, as their results and the league table suggest.
“Every now and again they get themselves up for it and get a good result, but it’s not week in, week out,” he explained.
The Big Task Ahead for Potter
Despite their ability to surprise when they are motivated, Keane highlighted the significant challenge ahead for Potter.
“I reckon they’re a tough group to manage, put it that way,” Keane said.
The former player suggested that West Ham’s tendency to be inconsistent makes it hard for Potter to build momentum and consistency, especially as the team prepares to face high-caliber opponents like Liverpool.
The Importance of the Liverpool Match
Keane also made it clear that if West Ham doesn’t “fancy it” against Liverpool, they will struggle.
“They’ve got to fancy it today or Liverpool will easily beat them,” he warned.
This sentiment reflects the pressure on West Ham to step up and prove they can compete at the highest level, despite their difficulties this season.