Beers in the West Ham United camp may not prove to be the major disadvantage Leeds United are hoping for on Sunday. The Hammers celebrated their Europa Conference League progress on Thursday and pleaded with David Moyes for one more night on the continent.
Predictably, the London side flew back home that same night, but it’s clear there would have been celebrations inside the squad. Leeds, looking for all the advantages they can in a do-or-die game, will hope their opponents are tired and emotionally hungover from their midweek exertions.
However, Sam Allardyce, no stranger to dressing rooms which have celebrated in the past, has warned alcohol could even unlock better play from Sunday’s hosts. Leeds, fans will fondly remember, played brilliantly at Derby County in July 2020 less than 48 hours after beginning their promotion binge.
Sam Allardyce said: “I hope he (Moyes) did it (kept them in the Netherlands another night). I know he wouldn’t. I know what he’s like. It’s a great day for West Ham. I had four great years there myself, of course. To see them getting to a European final, it’s been a long time since that happened. It’s probably made up for the fact they’ve had a disappointing season in the Premier League. They didn’t expect to be where they are. Going down to the London Stadium is just our focus on what we’re doing, not what they’re doing. Will they be tired? Will he change the side? What will he do? Have the lads had a few drinks? Might make them better. It might make them more relaxed and might make them function better. We can only concentrate on us trying to play our best. Whatever team West Ham picks, we have to play our best on Sunday to win the game.”
