West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui has apologised to supporters for the club’s poor start to the season but remains confident “better moments” are coming.
The Hammers have eight points from their first seven matches after the heavy 4-1 defeat to Tottenham on Saturday afternoon.
Asked why his team collapsed over eight second half minutes, Lopetegui said: “We have to be aware that this is not enough. Despite the fact we are playing one of the best teams in the attacking phase, we can do better in the defensive phase. We were working for this.
“It is true that this week is different with the international break but it is not an excuse – we have to do better with the kind of team they have in front and how they want to attack so maybe I have to improve in my translation [of ideas] too.”
He added: “We are sure we are going to have better moments. The Premier League is very long for all the teams. We knew that we have a hard start but in the same way we are able to improve, win matches and I am sure we will do this.
“Then at the end of the season is when we will see where we will be. Today we are very frustrated and also sorry to them above all but we are going to work hard for our next challenge.”
Star attacker Mohammed Kudus opened the scoring in the first half but was sent off after at least two red card offences and will face at least a three-match ban for violent conduct.
Lopetegui hadn’t seen the incident or spoken to Kudus but said: “For sure, he is going to be aware that he can improve in this moment because this is not good for him, the club and the team.”