Former West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce has suggested that Europa League football this season could hamper the club's chances of success.
The 60-year-old departed Upton Park at the end of last season, with ex-Hammers defender Slaven Bilic being appointed as his replacement last month.
Allardyce has claimed that his successor could struggle if the Hammers continue to be successful in Europe.
"Europe is going to be a defining factor. If West Ham have a very good run in Europe it could have a detrimental effect on their Premier League results," Allardyce told talkSPORT.
"If you play more games in Europe, along with the FA Cup and League Cup, you're going to test the squad. I'm not sure the squad is strong and deep enough if they have a long run in Europe. Staying clear of injuries is the most important thing in any manager's season.
"If not, Slaven Bilic could run into the same problems I did over the last four years."
West Ham face Birkirkara in the second round of Europa League qualifying on Thursday.
Steven Toplis
