West Ham United climbed to the top of the English Football League Championship after a dominant 5-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers, marking their third consecutive league win. The result was a significant boost for the club, with captain Jarrod Bowen scoring both the opening and the final goal of the match. Fans traveling to Bolton were thrilled, with the 4,500 supporters celebrating the win enthusiastically. This was the first time since December 2023 that West Ham had achieved three straight league victories. That earlier run had led to a contract offer for manager David Moyes, which was later withdrawn before his eventual departure six months ago. The club has since struggled, ultimately being relegated from the Premier League last May. West Ham supporters remained in the stadium after the match, chanting and showing their appreciation for the team's performance. Their chants, however, included references to former chairman David Sullivan, and none were kind. Although Sullivan was not at Bolton for the match, he has attended every home game this season, including a draw against Watford in October. His continued presence has surprised many, especially after he stepped down in June amid allegations investigated by the BBC and The Times. His resignation had been expected, along with that of Karren Brady, who left as managing director in April. This led to the sale of 50,000 season tickets for West Ham’s first campaign outside the Premier League since 2011. The club has seen strong attendance, with an average of over 60,000 fans at home games, including a record 53,369 for their EFL Cup win against Portsmouth. The club’s ownership structure is undergoing changes, with a proposed agreement that would give David Sullivan a 40% stake in West Ham. Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky is set to become chairman with a 46% stake, making him the club’s largest shareholder. Karim Virani, now chief executive, has been praised for engaging with fans and addressing issues, including the controversial 2016 change to the club’s badge. Director of football Nils Koppen is involved in more transparent recruitment efforts compared to previous years. In the summer, 12 players were sold, including Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes, while nine new signings were made, including a record £22 million transfer for Arne Engels from Celtic. The club also signed 21-year-old Norwegian player Edvin Austbo for an initial £10 million. Uncertainty remains about the future of Amanda Staveley, as her July deal with Vanessa Gold triggered a pre-emption rights process that affects ownership stakes. While Sullivan has expressed support for Kretinsky, he is concerned that the process may divert attention from the transfer window. Some fans remain cautious about Sullivan’s future plans and the potential changes that could come from his deal with Kretinsky. Simon Lane, a season ticket holder, noted the confusion surrounding Sullivan’s role and the possibility of more changes ahead. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo has emphasized the importance of unity and stability, stating that he sees a path to a bright future for the club. He believes that the shared vision among the club’s ownership, staff, players, and fans can lead to improved performance. Recent success and leadership changes have brought optimism, with Nuno highlighting the unity across all areas of the club.