Julen Lopetegui set to ESCAPE the sack at West Ham, despite board level talks over replacing him, as he faces must-win game against Gary O'Neil's Wolves

Julen Lopetegui is set to remain in charge of West Ham for a must-win match against Wolves on Monday night. 

The Hammers have been in talks over whether to dismiss Lopetegui following a dismal start to the season which leaves them floundering in 14th.  

Mail Sport revealed on Wednesday that his position was under major scrutiny following Tuesday night’s 3-1 loss at Leicester – the latest blow during the Spaniard’s underwhelming start since being appointed in May. 

The Hammers hierarchy have been in discussions this morning as they decide Lopetegui’s future and have given serious consideration to dispensing with their head coach after just seven months in charge. 

Crucially, influential figures at the London Stadium have lost faith in Lopetegui and believe his appointment was a mistake. 

Graham Potter, it is understood, is a contender to replace Lopetegui. Edin Terzic, Sergio Conceicao, and Kasper Hjulmand also have support at boardroom level. 

Two consecutive defeats have intensified the scrutiny on Lopetegui, with the Hammers 14th

Graham Potter, Sergio Conceicao, and Edin Terzic have been identified as possible successors

But the appointment of a new boss with Premier League experience could be a factor as the Hammers decide their priority target should Lopetegui leave, which could work in Potter’s favour. 

Co-owner David Sullivan has a history of sticking by his managers but Lopetegui is now under huge pressure. 

Sections of the supporter base have already turned on Lopetegui, which will not work in his favour. 

Lopetegui took training on Thursday morning. 

West Ham’s board have been in discussions since Wednesday over parting ways with Lopetegui, who replaced David Moyes in the summer, and Mail Sport understands those talks are still ongoing with a decision likely to made be later today with Lopetegui due to face the media on Friday afternoon.

Co-owner David Sullivan has always been reluctant to part ways with managers midway through the season but there are serious concerns about the club’s poor start, with just four wins from their first 14 league games, as well as recent fallouts with players.

Mail Sport revealed on Wednesday that Lopetegui was involved in a heated half-time exchange with defender Jean-Clair Todibo during their 5-2 thrashing at home to Arsenal on Saturday.

Todibo made clear his frustrations in the home dressing room after the Hammers conceded five goals in the first half and that escalated into a row with Lopetegui.