Frank McAvennie admits he is baffled by how long it’s taking West Ham to provide clarity over David Moyes’ future at the London Stadium and it could have an effect on the players.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano reported in his Daily Briefing on Sunday (4 February) that he’s been told there will be movement in the next few weeks to get the final details in place to keep the Hammers boss at the London Stadium.
He said discussions between the two parties are “advancing well” as the Irons are “happy” with the work the Scotsman has done at the club.
However, reliable Hammers journalists Claret & Hugh shared fans are beginning to question the board after club sources were told that they will be taking their time over Moyes’ new contract.
Speaking to West Ham Zone, McAvennie said: “If the contract is there, why is it not signed yet? That’s what fans will be asking right now.
“I don’t get it. If you want him to sign then get it done already because there’s a lot of work that needs to be done to progress the club and that can’t happen unless the manager’s future is sorted.
“It could have an effect on the players if they’re not careful. I don’t know what the situation is maybe there’s still a chance that Moyes wants to move on or he’s holding back to see how this season goes.
“Be careful what you wish for West Ham.
“I think he should get the contract but I’ll keep saying and Moyes probably knows my stance already, he needs to be playing better football. Get those fans who are uncertain about you onside.
“Get that defence sorted out but before that can happen, clarity is needed on Moyes’ future because the uncertainty isn’t helping and what that could do is, undo all the work that’s been done already this season.”
“I don’t get why it’s taking so long because the club are always so quick to confirm news like this.”
Clarity is desperately needed at London Stadium
After the transfer window closed on 1 February, Moyes insisted they would return to contract negotiations, with those talks already “well down the line” [The Standard, 2 February].
This was then followed up by an update from Sean Whetstone claiming that Moyes would “100%” sign a new deal to remain beyond this season. But McAvennie is right, why is it taking so long?
And the uncertainty could not only have affected results on the pitch but also their plans on transfer deadline day.
The Hammers desperately needed reinforcements after Pablo Fornals’ and Said Benrahma’s delayed exits but why they couldn’t seal any leaves so many questions and one of them could well revolve around Moyes’ immediate future.
Also, despite their lofty league position of seventh, with Manchester United United leapfrogging them after that victory, West Ham fans remain unhappy with the style of play under Moyes and the latest displays against the Red Devils and Bournemouth back up those complaints.
Certainly, fans must be careful what they wish for but their doubts are justified. However, what is needed above all, is clarity because the club cannot plan ahead for another busy summer if Moyes’ future continues to ramble on like it is.
