Slaven Bilic believes West Ham's season was derailed by injuries.
Speaking after his side's 4-0 loss at home to Liverpool, Bilic was left to reflect on an underwhelming campaign after finishing 7th last season.
"It was a very difficult one and a very long one, to be fair," he observed. "We had many, many obstacles but it showed today it was not about the stadium. The stadium needs time to adjust but we knew that before – we simply had too many injuries, not only today but throughout the season," said the Croatian.
"We had eight operations this season, which was kind of weird, to be fair, and that's why I would like to give credit to the players because it was very hard.
"We had a minimum goal and we achieved it and we're going to benefit from this season long-term with the knowledge and experience because it was a very tough season.
With their Premier League status ensured for next season, the 48-year old believes the Hammers need to make moves in the transfer window in they want to do better next season.
"First, we have to adjust to the stadium. That period is not over, but it's going to be better because we already had one season here," added Bilic.
"Then we have to find good players in a few positions that we need to improve the squad. We have a good squad, but we need to improve the quality in the positions that we really need and where we had to improvise this season. That's all, really"
Source: tribalfootball.com