West Ham United have suddenly become a key player in the Premier League's relegation struggle, adding an unexpected layer of excitement to the season. This weekend, the gap between the 17th and 18th teams in the league has narrowed to just three points, a situation not seen since before Christmas.

Following a crucial 2-0 win against Burnley, West Ham have moved closer to Nottingham Forest, reviving their hopes of survival. The Hammers' recent form, winning three out of their last four matches, has sparked a sense of optimism among their supporters.

Wolves and Burnley: Struggling for Survival

While Wolves and Burnley seem almost certain to face relegation, with Wolves having only eight points from 25 matches and Burnley facing a 99.4% likelihood of dropping to the Championship, West Ham's resurgence has kept the relegation battle alive. Wolves are in danger of setting a new record for the fewest points in a Premier League season, currently held by Derby County with 11 points in the 2007-08 campaign.

At Turf Moor, Burnley's fans expressed their frustration, calling for manager Scott Parker's dismissal after a 16-match winless streak. Parker remains defiant, stating, "Whether we fail or we don't, we come through this for sure."

West Ham's Renewed Hope

West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo has urged his team to focus on themselves as they navigate the remainder of the season. After a 10-match winless run, Callum Wilson's late goal against Tottenham in January marked a turning point for the Hammers. Despite a 75.77% chance of relegation, they approach their final 13 games with renewed hope.

Former Liverpool and England midfielder Danny Murphy observed, "West Ham look more like a Nuno team over the last few weeks." The team has gained momentum, thanks to key players like Crysencio Summerville and Jarrod Bowen, who have been instrumental in their recent successes.

The Battle at the Bottom

Nottingham Forest, just three points ahead of West Ham, face their own challenges. Despite a £200 million spending spree, they have a 15.3% chance of relegation. Sean Dyche's side must balance domestic commitments with their Europa League campaign, where they will face Fenerbahce.

Murphy noted, "I've seen Nottingham Forest look passive too many times recently," attributing it to fatigue and the need to juggle resources across competitions.

Leeds United, after a recent victory over Forest, appear to be in the best form among the teams at risk, sitting on 29 points. Their momentum could be crucial in the fight to avoid the drop.

Crystal Palace and Tottenham: In Disarray

Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur face their own struggles. Palace are dealing with the aftermath of captain Marc Guehi's departure, while manager Oliver Glasner plans to leave at the season's end. Tottenham, meanwhile, have only secured four points from their last seven matches and haven't won a league game in 2023.

Murphy believes Tottenham will ultimately be safe, thanks to their squad's quality, but acknowledges the pressure on Palace, who are struggling with confidence.

In this dramatic relegation battle, West Ham, Forest, and Palace find themselves in a tight race. As the season progresses, every point will count, and the final outcome may not be decided until the very last day.