Ex-EFL player picks out ‘massive issue’ at West Ham at the moment

West Ham are eyeing promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking this season from the Championship.

By Harry Mail · The 72

Published: Saturday, 14 November 2026 at 7:58 AM

Key Things to Know

Former EFL player Sam Parkin warned that defending is a massive issue for West Ham under Scott Parker.
West Ham sit ninth in the Championship table after 15 games, one point outside the play-off positions.
The Hammers have conceded 23 league goals this season, giving them the worst defensive record in the top 10.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former EFL player Sam Parkin stated that defending is a massive issue for West Ham United under new head coach Scott Parker. Speaking on the Benjamin Bloom YouTube channel, Parkin highlighted that the team is conceding far too many goals, plays too openly, and lacks sufficient Championship experience and leadership across the pitch.

West Ham sit ninth in the Championship after 15 fixtures, having conceded 23 goals despite scoring a division-best 37 times. Writer Harry Mail argues that the Hammers would benefit from reinforcing their defense in the January transfer window, specifically by targeting a new goalkeeper and central defender to support Max Kilman and Konstantinos Mavropanos.

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