Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank has admitted that Mohammed Kudus is unlikely to receive a warm welcome when he faces former club West Ham United at the London Stadium this weekend.
The Ghanaian forward, who completed a £55 million switch from the Hammers to Spurs in the summer, is preparing for his first return since the controversial move — one that has infuriated large sections of the West Ham faithful.
Some fans have already displayed banners branding him a “Judas” on a snake’s body, underlining the bitterness that lingers over his departure.
“You don’t think they will applaud him? Maybe not,” Frank said when asked about the reception awaiting Kudus. “I’m pretty sure players and myself hear the extra noise, but then you get into your zone. I’m sure it will be the same for Kudus and for anyone playing in a hostile atmosphere.”
Andy Payne, joint secretary of Hammers United — West Ham’s largest supporters’ group with nearly 20,000 members — summed up the mood among fans. “Leaving West Ham to join Tottenham is second only to signing for Millwall. I expect Kudus to receive a sub-optimal welcome back. Or in other words, he will get a lot of s**t.”
Kudus, 25, became a fan favourite during his two seasons in East London, producing dazzling performances in claret and blue. But his decision to join a bitter rival has now placed him firmly in the crosshairs of the Hammers’ support.
West Ham fans have a history of unforgiving reactions to departures. Declan Rice was loudly booed upon his return with Arsenal last season, while Paul Ince faced years of hostility after his 1989 switch to Manchester United.
Security at the London Stadium has been stepped up ahead of Spurs’ visit, with a fiery atmosphere expected as Kudus makes his highly charged return.
