Hammers fans need something to cheer about headed into a congested Christmas fixture list but will West Ham deliver? If not, Bilic just might be the next manager to leave his post.
It’s going to be tough, no ifs or buts about it, for both West Ham and Bilic, respectively.
On the heels of yet another defeat (5-1 to Arsenal at home), Slavan Bilic’ side slips to a woeful 3-3-8 mark and 12 points through 14 laps of England’s top flight. What makes this latest defeat particularly illuminating (and not in a good way) is the’ complete and utter late game collapse. To give up three goals in the last 10 minutes is simply inexcusable, and it really puts into question West Ham United’s Premier League tenability, not to mention Bilic’s.
Nosing a point ahead of Hull City and Sunderland & three points clear of table propping Swansea City, the Hammers are nowhere near to being ‘in the clear’ even if they’re currently the proud owners of 17th spot. And with a tough stretch looming, featuring both top clubs in the league and relegation rivals, fans have cause for concern. For West Ham fans that means one thing: value free bets across sports betting platforms.
Relegation is a real possibility even if markets appear conciliatory with the dreaded prospect served up at 7.50 at the sports betting exchange. As it stands, Hull City lead the charge into second-tier obscurity priced at 1.33, followed by Sunderland at 1.53 and Swansea City at 1.80. Indeed, this market is also favourable for clubs such as Burnley (2.25), Middlesbrough (5.30) and Crystal Palace (7.00) – all of which, curiously, hold better rankings in the Premier League table.
West Ham United’s schedule going into the Christmas Break: Liverpool (away) Burnley (home) and Hull City (home).
To look at the upcoming schedule presses home just what a tough ask it’s going to be for West Ham United, particularly in the coming weeks. From a potential nine points up for grabs, West Ham can maybe realistically hope for a maximum of six points – from the last two fixtures at home featuring Burnley and Hull City.
However, even those can’t be taken for granted. Hull City have shown spirit despite adversity while Burnley managed to upset Liverpool earlier this season as well as Everton. They’ve fairly recently held Man United to a scoreless draw at the Old Trafford as well. Consider the way the Hammers are playing right now, both of these opponents can realistically fancy their chances.
In any event, even if West Ham were to collect those precious six points (or thereabouts) there is no guarantee it’ll be enough to keep them above the murky water. Should they sink, Slavan Bilic, priced at 13.00 for the sack, could be the next manager to be relieved of his post.
