Julen Lopetegui shuts out West Ham critics ahead of Newcastle United showdown

West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui remains unfazed by rumours that his position is precarious, as his team prepares to face Newcastle United at St James' Park. Despite the Hammers' lacklustre performances this season post-David Moyes, which includes only three victories in the Premier League and a 5-1 Carabao Cup exit against Liverpool, Lopetegui is resolved to maintain focus.

Addressing pressure, he said during his pre-match press conference: "Our life is to live under pressure. Our work is like this and that is why we choose this kind of work. The more important thing is that we are working very hard to improve. I think the players have a big commitment to do this and I am sure we are going to achieve our levels.

"We are all not happy with the position we are in, but there is a lot of time to change this. We have to get there step-by-step, trying to correct little by little what we have to do to improve as a team. I am not listening to or reading about what is said. I am really focused."

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He emphasised on his concentration towards team development, added: "My focus is to work in the team and to be able to understand what things can help us be a better team. The rest, this is not under our control – what is being able to work better with a high demand, knowing that our players are going to get better for sure."

"And also knowing that the (end of the) season arrives in May, not November, so let’s see what is going to happen in two or three months." The only thing I am focused on now is going to Newcastle on Monday and trying to get a good result in a tough game."

Lopetegui revealed a couple of players had "little problems" as the squad returned from the international break, but does not expect any major doubts for Monday night. Midfielder Edson Alvarez will be available again after being suspended for the goalless draw against Everton.

Mohammed Kudus continues to serve his own ban following a red card and subsequent misconduct charge following a red card in West Ham’s 4-1 defeat at Tottenham last month.