Ben Johnson wants his side to continue the momentum as West Ham United made the perfect start to the unusual task of a packed three-game week.
The Hammers defeated AFC Bournemouth 2-0 at London Stadium and will now face Silkeborg IF on Thursday in the UEFA Europa Conference League before a trip to Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday.
In east London, a header from Kurt Zouma and a Saïd Benrahma penalty ensured the Hammers would secure a fifth straight home win in all competitions.
But Johnson challenged his side to build on the performance and take confidence into a taxing week.
“It was extremely hard work on Monday,” explained Johnson. “[Games like this] take a lot out of you but fortunately, we got the result we wanted. It pushes us up the table, but we have to continue to get points on the board now.
"There are certain things we can do better. It is something we can work on during the week. It is so important that we get either a draw or a win against Silkeborg IF [on Thursday].
"Our squad is much better equipped [to challenge on both fronts] than last season. It is difficult having a three-game week, but you always want to play and get back on the pitch, so we are not complaining.”
In particular, Johnson praised the performance of the Hammers goalscorers – Zouma and Benrahma.
Zouma capped his 200th Premier League appearance with a fine header to net the opener against the Cherries, while Benrahma rounded off an excellent display with a fierce spot-kick.
“It is great to play with Kurt,” explained Johnson. “He is such a nice guy, someone who helps everyone. You have to respect what he has done in his career. He has been at the top for many year and he works so hard.
“It is always good going in front just before half time. It was definitely what we needed. It was a relief in the dressing room. We have started slowly in most of our games. We started a bit better [against Bournemouth] and we just need to continue that.”
“Said was also magic tonight. Hopefully, he can continue his form and get more goals. He has always been a goal threat, but it is just making that more consistent.
“[Across the pitch] there were some really good things tonight. It is always positive when you win. People always say on to the next, but we need to enjoy this win and then focus on the next game.”
