West Ham United claimed a huge win as they defeated fellow London-side, Fulham 1-0. Crysencio Summerville got the all important goal as the Hammers stood on their defensive front to secure all three points.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s team got back to what they know following a 5-2 defeat with Liverpool. West Ham have made major strides defensively, with the group as a whole being key to the Hammers upturn in form.
Jean-Clair Todibo made his first appearance since returning from suspension, putting on a clinic as Axel Disasi’s central partner. The defender spoke to the club’s official website following the win, joining in the praise of the fans and stating the team will not stop in their fight for survival:
“It’s a very good result for us, and what we were looking for with a win and a clean sheet, so it’s perfect for us,” Todibo said.
“The first half was a bit difficult, but it’s normal to have highs and lows in the game. We managed our lows well, and Mads [Hermansen] made some good saves, and then we were clinical with our finishing as well.
“That was important, and now we just want to keep fighting for the fans and everyone around the Club. I think they deserve good results, and so does the team because everyone is working so hard.
“We want to continue getting results, and do it for the fans. Both our away and home fans are incredible. I was in the stands for the Manchester United and AFC Bournemouth games, and I had goosebumps because the atmosphere was crazy, so hopefully that can continue going forward.”
Todibo’s triumphant return
Prior to his red card at Chelsea, Todibo had been looking solid in the West Ham backline. The suspension has seen him lose his place to fellow Frenchman Disasi, who has been a sensation since joining on-loan.
The central defender would return in place of Konstantinos Mavropanos last night, looking like he never left the starting XI:
“The goal and objective for the team is to stay up, and I think we are showing a lot of energy and commitment. The team is really complete, and I think really we can beat anyone in the league.
“For me, the red card slowed me down a little bit, but the guys did a brilliant job and I’m really pleased to have been able to come back and perform like this. I think since the coach has been here, I’ve performed quite well and gone into every week trying to increase the level, so I just hope that can continue.”
Defence trusts attack
The story of West Ham’s revival has largely been about the team sorting out their defence. Paco Jemez joined Nuno’s team and has overseen the group become significantly stronger in ever phase of defensive play.
Summerville, who got the winning goal last night, has been one of West Ham’s in form players, scoring seven goals in the Premier League this season. Todibo believes there is a lot more to come from the Dutch winger:
“The guy is incredible! Unfortunately, his injury slowed him down and people didn’t see a lot of him last year, but I think he did show glimpses of what he was capable of.
“At the moment, he’s just unbelievable. When he takes the ball, I think everyone in the league is scared. That’s the player he wants to be, and he has the quality to do it, so I’m really pleased for him.”
