Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan has admitted he has been taken aback by the shift in West Ham‘s mentality this season.
Having narrowly arrived relegation last term, David Moyes‘ side are on the verge of creating history and qualifying for Europe.
Whelan, who played 243 times in the English top-flight, believes a major contributor in that turnaround is down to the Hammers mentality, showcased during their defeat at the hands of Manchester City. He told Football Insider:
”When you’re up against big sides like Manchester City who can make the changes they’ve got the squad for, it’s tough. But to put in that kind of performance and to push them so close is testament to how far they’ve come. Maybe two years ago and that’s a 5-0 Manchester City win. Now, you look at it and you think: ‘Wow’.”
West Ham face one of Whelan’s former clubs Leeds United on Monday night at the London Stadium looking to further their claim for European football next season.
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There has certainly been a stark difference from this season to last, underpinned by the mentality within the squad.
Credit for that has to go to Moyes and his coaching staff, not only for turning the fortunes of the long-standing players around but for also recruiting players who have come in and added to it.
Long may it continue.
