Ex-West Ham boss David Moyes believes Julen Lopetegui should be given more time to turn things around at the London Stadium.

The 3-0 defeat at the hands of Nottingham Forest on Saturday has put more pressure on the Hammers head coach but, speaking to the BBC‘s Football Daily podcast, Moyes said Lopetegui has to be afforded the opportunity to implement his own ideas:

“I had a few defeats where we lost heavily at different times, so it happens for all managers I think the new manager coming in needs time and to be given that opportunity to set things the way he wants them to happen. They look as if they’re a bit more open than they’ve been before and more liable possibly to concede. But they’re desperately trying to score more goals as well.”

“This time last year, I think we’d played about five or six more games than what they have just now because we had the European competition to compete with as well. So the players there should be much fresher, bigger energy, showing that.”

“But I just think that the manager needs to be given an opportunity, a bit of time to settle things down. Sometimes players need to perform as well, they need to step up and show what they’re about. I’m sure a few of them can play better and show the manager exactly what they can do.”

Lopetegui’s record since replacing Moyes

The stats don’t make for good reading. Since the former Real Madrid and Wolves manager took the reins, West Ham have won only 4 games, drawing 2 and losing 6 in all competitions.

What will worry the club’s hierarchy most is the number of goals the team is conceding. They have already let in 24. The defence must improve or Lopetegui will be without a job very soon.

What are the odds of the West Ham manager being sacked?

Many hoped that the win over Manchester United last month would kick start the Irons’ season but the defeat at the City Ground has raised more concerns. A loss to Everton on Saturday could lead to a replacement being sought in the next international break.

Southampton’s Russell Martin is still seen as the likeliest Premier League manager to lose his job (despite securing his first win at the weekend), but Lopetegui is now the second favourite to be sacked with odds between 11/5 and 9/4.

Find out who is in West Ham’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here