Eddie Howe shares why he thinks West Ham have ‘suffered’ this season

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Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe believes West Ham have struggled this season due to their involvement in the Europa Conference League.

While Newcastle are flying high near the top, it has been a much tougher season for David Moyes‘ side.

West Ham are still battling to avoid relegation, and picked up a big three points at the weekend when they beat Southampton. That result lifted them up to 15th, but they are only out of the bottom three on goal difference.

It is a stark contrast to recent seasons for the Hammers. Moyes’ men have been challenging near the top of the Premier League table, and have came close to qualifying for the Champions League.

This season has been much tougher, however, and Howe thinks it is down to their midweek travels.

Eddie Howe thinks West Ham have ‘suffered’ from playing in Europe

Howe has spoke to Sky Sports ahead of Wednesday night’s game at the London Stadium, and commented on West Ham’s form.

“They’ve probably suffered a bit this season with the European travels that they’ve had,” he said.

“Those exertions put a different dynamic on your squad. But they’re a top team, with very very good players. I thought they recruited really well last summer so it just goes to show the fine lines in the Premier League.”

Something Newcastle must be wary of

On paper, this West Ham team should be doing a lot better. They nearly qualified for the Champions League last season, and reached the semi final of the Europa League.

However, this season has been very different. Survival is still not guaranteed, while they are thriving in the Europa Conference League. They face Gent in the quarter finals next week.

Their European exploits have impacted their Premier League form, and that is something Newcastle will soon need to be wary of.

It looks like we are going to qualify for Europe. It is just a matter of which competition. Champions League is the dream, and it remains a distinct possibility.

Regardless, Howe will suddenly have to juggle the pressures of playing more games in a season, as well as travelling across Europe. It has hindered many teams before, and the Toon manager must find a way of preventing a dip domestically.

It is probably something he is already pondering, especially given how aware he is of West Ham’s struggles.