Sam Allardyce has previousy admitted that promotion is the only option.
“My only goal at the moment is promotion for West Ham out of this division as quickly as possible,” he said. “If I don’t do that, then I don’t expect to be here.”
West Ham are expected to beat Cardiff City over two legs in the play off semi finals but failing to get automatic promotion has added extra pressure to a club that thinks it should hold a Premiership place.
Speaking to the press McDonald said:
“In our heart of hearts we always knew Southampton would win their last game,” he said. “We were more disappointed when we drew at Bristol City before that in a game we needed to win. We were favourites at the start of the season to go up so it was disappointing we didn’t do it automatically. But we’ll take the favourite tag if everyone wants to give it to us and we are ready for the two games against Cardiff.”
West Ham’s recent form should also provide hope. They have won a club-record 13 away games this season and, crucially for the mood around Upton Park, go into the play-offs after consecutive home victories. Their three leading goalscorers, Carlton Cole, Kevin Nolan and Ricardo Vaz Tê, are also in good form. “There’s no reason why we shouldn’t handle the pressure,” McDonald said.
“I don’t think we have anything to be afraid of. It will be a unique atmosphere but our experienced players will calm everyone down. Hopefully our away form will intimidate Cardiff. The momentum is there.”