Tomas Soucek Urges West Ham To Strengthen Mentality Before Manchester United Match

Add as a preferred source on Google

Tomas Soucek has emphasised the need for West Ham to improve their mindset following a heavy defeat to Tottenham. As they prepare to face Manchester United on Sunday, Soucek highlighted the importance of learning from their recent 4-1 loss. West Ham, under Julen Lopetegui, have secured eight points from eight Premier League matches, but the Tottenham game marked a low point.

West Ham's performance against Tottenham saw them concede three goals in just eight minutes during the second half. This lapse effectively ended their chances in the match. Soucek mentioned that strong words were exchanged in the dressing room post-match. "It's very frustrating, and we're all angry," he stated. "We said in the dressing room that this cannot happen because it's a derby for us, for the fans, and it's a massive game."

Manchester United are only three points ahead of West Ham as they head into Sunday's encounter. In their last league outing, United came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over Brentford. However, they failed to maintain a lead against Fenerbahce in the Europa League, ending with a 1-1 draw. Goalkeeper Andre Onana expressed his disappointment after the match.

"It was a big disappointment for me and the fans," Onana told TNT Sports. "As a Manchester United player you have an obligation to try to win." Despite not securing victory, Onana acknowledged that they showed character by controlling much of the second half and creating more opportunities than their opponents.

West Ham will miss Mohammed Kudus due to suspension following his red card against Spurs. However, Jarrod Bowen remains crucial for them. Bowen has matched Kudus' tally of two league goals this season and has created 20 chances so far in 2024-25. His contributions will be vital as West Ham look to bounce back.

For Manchester United, Alejandro Garnacho stands out with his impressive goal-scoring record. Garnacho has netted 12 Premier League goals before turning 21, placing him among an elite group of non-British players achieving such a feat at his age. Only Cristiano Ronaldo has scored more for United before reaching this milestone.

Match Prediction and Historical Context

The upcoming clash between West Ham and Manchester United is expected to be closely contested. Historically, West Ham have won their last two home games against United without conceding any goals. They aim to achieve three consecutive home clean sheets against United for the first time ever.

United have struggled at London Stadium compared to their record at Boleyn Ground, suffering more defeats there in fewer visits. Despite recent challenges, United have managed three consecutive away clean sheets in the Premier League but have drawn goalless in their last two road trips.

The probability of outcomes according to Opta suggests Manchester United have a slight edge with a 40.3% chance of winning compared to West Ham's 34.6%. A draw is given a 25.1% likelihood based on current form and historical performances between these teams.