Wolves' Gary O’Neil in Defining Premier League Clash vs West Ham

Dec 9, 2024 at 2:16 PM
Gary O’Neil, the Wolves head coach, is currently in a tough fight for his job. Monday night's game against West Ham holds great significance and could potentially be his last. After consecutive damaging defeats against Bournemouth and Everton, the supporters' mood has changed. There was once patience and understanding, but now, with eight goals conceded in the past two games, that has shifted. Performances against teams like Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle, and Aston Villa were arguably worthy of more, and both supporters and the club recognized the difficulty of the start. However, the argument only holds when points are picked up in those games, which, in the eyes of fans, may be more winnable. The draw at home to Crystal Palace and the loss to Bournemouth at Molineux significantly eroded the support and belief from the terraces. The hammering at Everton took it to a whole new level. Wolves, currently sitting in 19th place and four points from safety, host third-bottom Ipswich Town on Saturday, level on nine points with them. This run of games was always expected to determine O’Neil's fate, and another loss at the London Stadium could seal his fate.

Before the Troubled Times

Before these recent setbacks, Gary O’Neil's Wolves showed promise. Their performances against tough opponents like Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle, and Aston Villa demonstrated their potential. The fans showed patience and understanding, believing in the team's ability to turn things around. However, as the defeats piled up and the goals started flowing in, that patience began to wear thin.

Recent Defeats and Their Impact

The defeats against Bournemouth and Everton have been particularly damaging. Losing eight goals in just two games has shaken the team and the supporters. It's not just about the number of goals but the manner in which they were conceded. These losses have led to a definite change in the mood among the fans. The once-solid support and belief from the terraces are now wavering.

The Importance of the Upcoming Games

The upcoming game against Ipswich Town on Saturday is crucial for Wolves. Sitting just four points from safety, every game becomes a matter of survival. A win could give them a much-needed boost and potentially keep O’Neil in his job. But a loss could further complicate their situation and make it even more difficult for him to retain his position. The game at the London Stadium against West Ham is also a defining moment. Another loss could be the final nail in the coffin for O’Neil.