Angelo Ogbonna says unity is the key for West Ham United as they aim to bounce back from Saturday’s 4-0 defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Hammers return to action on Thursday with their UEFA Europa Conference League Round of 16 first leg at AEK Larnaca, with Ogbonna targeting a swift response.
Saturday’s result was all the more frustrating given the Irons had beaten Nottingham Forest by an identical scoreline in their previous league fixture, and Ogbonna is keen to use the pain of that defeat as fuel for the challenges ahead.
Progress to a second consecutive European quarter-final and ascending the Premier League table remain the aims for the east Londoners, with focus now switching to the trip to Cyprus.
“Saturday was a bad day for everyone and disappointing, of course,” the Italy defender stated.
“We stick together and we keep going - Brighton are a really good side and they played really well on Saturday. We tried to stop them, but we didn’t make it.
“I think it’s really disappointing for everyone, but we want to get back. We have another game on Thursday so we have an opportunity to bounce back.
“Every game is important to give us a really good bounce and Thursday is a good chance to do that..
Ogbonna also offered a positive update on his fitness after he was withdrawn in the second period with a knock, as the returning Kurt Zouma came on in his place.
“For a precaution we decided to make a change, but I think it’s okay,” he confirmed.
