West Ham “have to be” getting into Europe again this season according to Michail Antonio.

A 3-0 thumping at Nottingham Forest means West Ham sit 14th in the Premier League. They are pretty much dead in the middle of relegation and Europe points wise, but that’s simply not good enough.

The Hammers spent huge amounts in the Summer and took the risk of getting rid of David Moyes in order to bring in Julen Lopetegui – a decision that has been disastrous so far.

Despite their awful start, striker Michail Antonio believes that the aim simply has to be getting back into Europe. “[The goal by the] end of the season is to win as many games as possible,” Antonio told Sky Sports. “Because we’re in the transition stage, we do want to finish in Europe – that’s one place we’re always look at.”

“It’s going to have to be Europe in my eyes.”

“One thing with West Ham fans is they always stick with us,” the No.9 continued. “They’re there for the bad times or the good times, they’re always there and they always believe. Just keep believing.”

Unfortunately, it’s hard to believe in a project that can’t be seen. Deciphering what brand of football, what system, and what work ethic Lopetegui is trying to achieve is an impossible task. Questions are being asked by fans already, he needs to get things back on track urgently to restore the belief that Antonio mentioned.