West Ham sack Nuno Espirito Santo after disappointing start to season in Championship

West Ham United have sacked Nuno Espirito Santo after back-to-back home defeats left the club eighth in the Championship.

Saturday’s 3-1 loss to West Bromwich Albion at the London Stadium prompted what the Hammers called a “thorough review” of their start to life in the second tier, with the team six points behind leaders Middlesbrough.

The club had opted in May to stick with Nuno, despite the Portuguese’s failure to secure Premier League safety following his appointment last September.

However, the Hammers have now removed their head coach with side having lost three of their seven home games as they seek an immediate return to the top flight.

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Necessary change

A club statement read: “West Ham United can confirm that men’s first-team head coach Nuno Espírito Santo has left his position with immediate effect.

“Following a thorough review of the start to the EFL Championship season, the board of directors believe that a change is necessary at this time in order to ensure that the club’s objectives and expectations remain on track.

“Assistant head coach Rui Pedro Silva and goalkeeper coach Rui Barbosa have also departed.

“West Ham United would like to thank Nuno, Rui and Rui for their hard work and commitment during their time at the club, and wish them all the very best for the future.

“The process of recruiting a new head coach is already under way.

“Mark Noble, Steve Potts and Gerard Prenderville will take temporary charge of squad preparations ahead of (Wednesday) evening’s EFL Championship fixture at Cardiff City, and the club will make no further comment until the appointment of the new head coach is confirmed.”

Successor?

Nuno admitted after the weekend defeat to the Baggies that “many things went wrong”, adding that conceding six goals in two home games was unacceptable.

He was also subjected to chants of ‘sacked in the morning’ from the travelling supporters.

According to Sky Sports News, Scott Parker is close to being appointed as West Ham’s new head coach, with discussions at an advanced stage.

Parker made 129 appearances for the Hammers between 2007 and 2011 and has previously guided Fulham, Bournemouth and Burnley to promotion to the Premier League.

He was sacked by the Clarets last April following their relegation from the top flight.

Former Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna has also been linked with the vacancy alongside Parker and former Wolves and Middlesbrough boss Rob Edwards.

READ MORE: West Ham 1-3 West Brom: Hammers boss Nuno Espirito Santo says ‘many things went wrong’