After a dismal run of results that left them seven points adrift at the bottom of the Premier League table, West Ham United have staged a remarkable turnaround, winning three games on the bounce and closing the gap to just two points from safety.
The Hammers’ dominant 3-1 victory over Sunderland on Saturday was a testament to their newfound resilience and attacking prowess. Goals from Crysencio Summerville, Jarrod Bowen, and Mateus Fernandes in a scintillating first half performance have breathed new life into their fight for survival.
“After losing to Nottingham Forest they were seven points adrift and it was all looking a bit bleak, but they’ve clawed their way back to a position where they’ve got a bit of hope now,” said former Wales captain Ashley Williams, who is a pundit on BBC’s Match of the Day.
The turnaround has also increased the pressure on West Ham’s relegation rivals, Nottingham Forest and Leeds United, who now find themselves looking over their shoulders nervously.
“Until recently I couldn’t see how Nuno Espirito Santo was going to turn it around. Even when they signed the two new forwards I still didn’t think they would have enough to stay up – and they still might not – but the manager seems to have stopped the rot and some of the pressure has eased on him,” added Williams.
West Ham’s resurgence has been spearheaded by the inspirational performances of captain Jarrod Bowen, who contributed a goal from the penalty spot and an assist for Summerville’s opener. The 29-year-old Englishman has now overtaken Michail Antonio as the club’s all-time Premier League top goal involvement leader, with 102 contributions.
“That’s the best I have seen West Ham play all season,” said Williams. “The Hammers dominated the game, especially the first half. They played with a lot more energy and creativity, with both Crysencio Summerville and Jarrod Bowen being very good.”
With Chelsea, Manchester United, and Liverpool still to come in the next few weeks, West Ham’s survival fight remains a daunting challenge. However, their recent performances have instilled a renewed sense of belief and optimism among the club’s supporters, who now see a glimmer of hope in their bid to avoid the drop.
