West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui has shrugged off talk he has only two games to save his job.
The Hammers, slumped in 14th place coming into the weekend, face a tricky trip to resurgent Newcastle on Monday before entertaining title-hopefuls Arsenal the following Saturday.
But despite speculation over the international break that his expensively-assembled misfits need to show a marked improvement in those fixtures for him to survive the axe, Lopetegui declared that total rubbish.
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Asked if he had received any warning to that effect from owner David Sullivan, the Spaniard, who spent more than £150million after assuming the reins in the summer, said: “We talk every week but I’m not going to tell you what about.
“But, no, the only thing I am focused on is Newcastle – a tough match against a very good team. We have to improve and overcome the kinds of difficulties we have as a team.
(Image: Catherine Ivill/AMA)
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“The rest of it…that’s football and up to you – but I’m not focused on that. I am not listening or reading. These things are out of my control.”
Regards the heat getting too much for him at the London Stadium as the fans fast lose patience, Lopetegui insisted he can cope with the burden of expectation.
The ex-Real Madrid and Wolves coach added: “Our life is to live under pressure. That’s why we choose this world. The more important thing is we’re working hard – and the players have a big commitment. Let’s see where are in two or three months.“