Hammers and Europe could be a problem

The last time I raised the subject I had someone of the lunatic fringe ask me how I could count myself as a West Ham supporter.

It takes all kinds I s’pose!

But if I’m a dodgy supporter so is Tonka because our former heroic full back Ray Stewart reckons we could have problems if we find ourselves in Europe next season.

Injuries are demonstrating how thin our squad is in certain positions – indeed generally – and for us to compete successfully in the League and Europe we need a minimum of five additional players in my view.

Given Mikey’s problem we need a couple up front and certainly two more in midfield and at left back MINIMUM!

If we manage either competition I would want it to be the Champions League where Tuesdays and Wednesday’s are match days rather than the Europa League on Thursdays.

Without sufficient numbers our dreams could become a nightmare in the PL and Ray declares: “It’s a big worry to me – seventh would be a great season and not put too much pressure on next season.

With finances as they are across the league right now it’s gonna be a problem to raise the required cash for players but bottom line – our Premier League position – must never be in danger and an additional Euro campaign could therefore be a problem.”

He added: “It would be fantastic for the fans but it must be clear to everyone that things might get difficult with such a heavy programme of top level games.”

It’s a view I share whilst adding that apart from the odd game, the manager’s decision making process has been excellent and I’m sure such issues are very much in his mind.