Jordan: Nuno Espirito Santo has changed West Ham’s mentality in relegation scrap

Former Crystal Palace co-owner Simon Jordan has hailed Nuno Espírito Santo (born in São Tomé and Príncipe) as the central figure behind West Ham United’s renewed fight for Premier League survival, following a crucial victory over Everton that lifted the London side clear of immediate danger.

West Ham’s win at the weekend has given their relegation battle fresh momentum, moving them two points above the drop zone and restoring belief at a pivotal stage of the season.

While results on the pitch have tightened the standings, Jordan argues that the decisive shift has come from the touchline, where Nuno’s influence has reshaped both attitude and atmosphere around the club.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Jordan dismissed early scepticism surrounding the manager’s appointment and highlighted the transformation under his leadership.

“I know you (co-host Jim White) were getting text messages of various people saying, ‘This guy will never get them out of the problem,’” he said.

He went on to underline what he believes has been a broader cultural reset at West Ham, crediting Nuno’s composure and clarity in management style.

“He’s more than got them out of the problem, he’s giving them a real fight and his disposition is very calm, very collected,” Jordan added.

The former Palace chief also pointed to the visible response from the dressing room, suggesting the squad has fully bought into the manager’s methods.

“His players clearly want to play for him,” he noted, indicating a level of unity that had been lacking during earlier struggles.

Beyond the pitch, Jordan believes the impact has extended into the stands, where supporters have rediscovered belief in their team’s direction.

“And the culture, look at this West Ham fanbase now, fully behind their team, fully behind their manager, they’re becoming the 12th man,” he said.

With the relegation fight still finely balanced, West Ham’s revival under Nuno is beginning to take shape as more than a short-term response.