It’s crunch time for West Ham in the Premier League, as the Hammers have just eight games to secure their top-flight status for another season.
David Moyes’ side sit just a single point above the relegation zone and face a huge test after the international break against Southampton, who sit just below them in the Premier League standings.
The Saints recently changed managers, appointing Mark Hughes on the South Coast, and are boosted by the return of striker Charlie Austin to fitness- and the England international has fired a warning to the Hammers ahead of the clash.
Speaking to the club’s official website, he said:
“It’s good to have that light at the end of the tunnel and this is the last tick in the box – it’s great to be back with the lads. All the hard work I’ve done with the physios and Bill (Styles, first team sports scientist) has paid off and hopefully I can stay fit until the end of the season.”
“Now I’m back, we’ve got a big eight weeks and I’ll put all my energy into helping the team drive forward to stay in the Premier League. It’s pressure. Some people like being in those scenarios, some people hide from it.”
“You’ve got to embrace it – as men and as footballers. We’re under a lot of pressure at the moment, don’t get me wrong, but we need to push forward.”
“Being a big character that I am and part of this great team, I feel there’s enough character, talent and work ethic, and with the new coaching staff coming in with new ideas, it’s going to really help us.”
Austin has not featured since the 1-1 draw with Huddersfield Town in December but scored against the Hammers earlier this season in a 3-2 victory.
