Nuno Espirito Santo calls for unity amid threats of fan boycott | OneFootball

West Ham United head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has urged supporters to rally behind the team ahead of Monday night’s Premier League clash against Brentford, as sections of the fanbase prepare to boycott the match in protest at the club’s ownership.

The fixture at the London Stadium marks Nuno’s first home game in charge since replacing Graham Potter, but it risks being defined more by the atmosphere off the pitch than the performance on it. Fans’ group Hammers United has called for a boycott, citing frustration with vice-chair Karren Brady and chairman David Sullivan, whose leadership they claim is “inflicting serious damage” on the club.

“I wish they’re all there, I wish,” Nuno said on Friday, speaking to Sky Sports. “I hope that all our fans could join us and help us facing Brentford because it’s going to be very tough. It’s up to us now to give back to the fans so they can come closer and support us.”

West Ham’s poor start to the season, drawing with Everton and losing to Arsenal, has left them 19th in the Premier League, with morale fragile both on and off the field. Nuno, however, insists the squad remains focused. “We try to ignore [the noise], focus on the task and perform well,” he said.

Brentford Scent Opportunity

Brentford manager Keith Andrews admitted his side would look to “capitalise” on the tension in east London as they seek their first away win of the campaign. “You’ve got to understand the environment you go into,” he said. “If we start well, maybe that can play to our advantage.”

GFN | Finn Entwistle