'I genuinely think': Alan Pardew now shares honest verdict on how Julen Lopetegui can get the best out of West Ham

Today at 07:15 AM

West Ham have had a mixed start to life under new manager Julen Lopetegui, though things could finally be starting to turn around.

The Irons recorded their best result of the season on Saturday with a 4-1 win against Ipswich Town, with Troy Deeney praising Jarrod Bowen after the West Ham captain inspired the east London side to Premier League victory.

Having made a slew of exciting signings this summer, Lopetegui was always going to need time if the former Wolves manager was to get his squad to gel, something that could be tested after the international break with Tottenham next up for West Ham,

And former West Ham manager Alan Pardew has now shared how Lopetegui can get the best out of the Hammers.

Lopetegui told to take a defensive approach to setting-up West Ham

Speaking on TalkSport, Pardew noted how West Ham could find results if they were set up to not concede, with Lopetegui’s style yet to really land with the east London side since joining in the summer.

As Pardew highlights, West Ham have the attacking talent to sort out scoring goals by themselves, with the backline the real issue for the Irons if they’re to start picking up wins and making a push for European qualification.

Pardew said: "I genuinely think that that team, if you set that team up to not concede, that frontline are definitely getting a goal, in my opinion, where they are on a break, on a set play, on something.

“They have got the quality. I think they should win more games than they are at the moment, that's for sure, but you know, great win yesterday."

West Ham becoming more defensive-minded could be the right call

Pardew is hardly the voice of reason when it comes to tactics in 2024 and how Premier League sides should set themselves up, but the former Crystal Palace and Newcastle United manager could have a point on how West Ham should play.

Leaking in goals and looking shaky at the back has been the Achilles heel for West Ham so far this season, with the Irons having some incredible attacking options in Bowen, Mohammed Kudus and new summer signing Niclas Fullkrug.

And establishing a strong defensive foundation could be the key to West Ham transforming their form around for the better, with the players there for Lopetegui to build a strong starting XI.