West Ham moved level on points with Tottenham in the Premier League relegation fight after battling to a 1–1 draw against Manchester City.
The Hammers will now keep a close eye on Tottenham, who face a difficult trip to Anfield to take on Liverpool.
Since Nuno Espirito Santo’s team defeated Tottenham 2–1 at the beginning of January, West Ham have managed to close a 12-point gap.
West Ham concern as Spurs close in on De Zerbi
West Ham’s recent form has increased the pressure on Tottenham and led many to see Spurs as favourites for relegation.
A four-team battle is currently unfolding between West Ham, Tottenham, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest to avoid joining Burnley and Wolves in the Championship.
While West Ham have been performing strongly, Tottenham’s poor results have left interim coach Igor Tudor under serious pressure, with reports suggesting he could soon be dismissed.
Although Tottenham’s struggles may appear beneficial for West Ham, recent developments in north London could change the situation.
De Zerbi linked with Tottenham move
West Ham had previously considered Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi as a possible replacement for David Moyes when they were assessing managerial options.
However, his disagreement with Brighton discouraged several interested clubs, including West Ham, and he eventually moved to Marseille.
De Zerbi’s potential impact
De Zerbi’s time in France ended by mutual consent a month ago following a 5–0 loss to rivals Paris Saint-Germain and a poor run of results.
He is now being linked with a return to England, with Tottenham reportedly viewing him as a key option as they try to remain in the Premier League.
Reports claim Spurs have discussed appointing De Zerbi if they avoid relegation, with Manchester United also monitoring the situation.
It has also been reported that De Zerbi is Tottenham’s preferred candidate to replace Igor Tudor.
Further reports suggest Tottenham are preparing to replace Tudor, with the upcoming match against Liverpool potentially being his final game in charge. Personal terms are believed to be the final step before De Zerbi could take over.
Relegation run-in remaining fixtures
West Ham United:
Aston Villa (A), Wolves (H), Crystal Palace (A), Everton (H), Brentford (A), Arsenal (H), Newcastle United (A), Leeds United (H)
Nottingham Forest:
Fulham (H), Spurs (A), Aston Villa (H), Burnley (H), Sunderland (A), Chelsea (A), Newcastle United (H), Man United (A), Bournemouth (H)
Tottenham Hotspur:
Liverpool (A), Nottingham Forest (H), Sunderland (A), Brighton (H), Wolves (A), Aston Villa (A), Leeds United (H), Chelsea (A), Everton (H)
Leeds United:
Crystal Palace (A), Brentford (H), Man United (A), Wolves (H), Bournemouth (A), Burnley (H), Spurs (A), Brighton (H), West Ham (A)
