Nuno targets getting West Ham fans back after battling draw at Everton

New West Ham boss Nuno Espírito Santo says restoring trust between fans and players is his “main priority” after beginning his tenure with a hard-fought 1-1 draw at Everton.

Jarrod Bowen’s second-half equaliser secured a point for the Hammers in Nuno’s first game in charge, following the dismissal of Graham Potter.

But the match was marked by chants of “sack the board” from travelling supporters, underlining the growing disconnect between the club and its fan base.

Fighting spirit in first outing

Nuno praised his side’s resilience at Goodison Park. “The team competed well. It was a tough place to come against a very good side. Both teams had chances, but overall it was a good, intense game,” he said.

Rebuilding connection

At full-time, Nuno led his players over to acknowledge the away fans in a gesture aimed at strengthening relationship.

“It’s important to appreciate what our fans did, travelling on a Monday night to support us,” he said. “We have to deliver so they can appreciate the boys’ work. Moving forward, it’s our main priority to come closer to our fans.”

Steady approach

The Portuguese manager added that he will avoid sweeping tactical changes, instead focusing on gradual improvements.

“When you arrive at a club, it’s about progressing step by step and finding the right solutions. Now it’s about how we can improve,” he explained.

West Ham will look to build on the point grabbed as Nuno works to steady results on the pitch and heal divisions off it.