Nuno expects tough Southampton test and calls for clean sheets
Nuno Espírito Santo wants West Ham to carry their two away wins into Saturday's home meeting with Southampton. The 6-0 win at Lincoln and 1-0 win at Swansea have lifted confidence, he told West Ham's official site, but he said each match brings a different challenge.
Nuno said a full week between games had given his players time to recover and prepare. He wants his side to build on two clean sheets and expects a tough match against a Southampton squad he rates highly. He singled out James Ward-Prowse as one of their threats, without suggesting the midfielder is the only one to watch.
Asked about Divine Mukasa, Nuno said West Ham have been delighted with the young player since he joined, while acknowledging he has areas to improve. It is praise from his manager, not a team selection for Saturday.
Sources
- Daily Echo (opens in a new tab) — Reports Nuno Espirito Santo’s comments ahead of West Ham’s match against Southampton, including his praise for their squad and his response to James Ward-Prowse’s return.
- West Ham United FC - Official Site (opens in a new tab) — Explains Nuno Espírito Santo’s thoughts on West Ham’s recent form, preparation and the challenge of facing Southampton at London Stadium.
- Claret&Hugh (opens in a new tab) — Argues that Nuno Espírito Santo will be keen to prevent James Ward-Prowse scoring against West Ham, while quoting Nuno’s measured comments ahead of the Southampton match.
- Knees up Mother Brown (opens in a new tab) — Reports Nuno Espírito Santo’s pre-match press conference ahead of West Ham’s home game against Southampton, including his comments on team availability, preparations and James Ward-Prowse.
- Daily Echo (opens in a new tab) — Explains Southampton manager Tonda Eckert’s defensive selection and discusses Keven Schlotterbeck’s form ahead of the Saints’ trip to West Ham.