With both teams sitting inside the Premier League's bottom three, West Ham can pull out of the dropzone with a win - even if only for 24 hours.
Nuno said ahead of Friday's clash: "The first time we faced them (in the reverse Premier League fixture in January 2026), it was probably one of the hardest moments we’ve had as a group. That was a really disappointing performance, but we came through that moment and improved a lot, and we’re in a much better place now.
"It’s going to be a tough game, because they’re a good team that is improving. You can see that, but we are ready to compete.
"We’re playing at home, which is a big advantage for us. We know the fans are going to be there, and we know we have a mission in our hands that we’re going to try to fulfil.
"I truly believe the fans understand the situation that we’re all in, and the need we have for their support. I think they have given us more than we’ve given them, so we have to thank them for everything they do."
On the pressure of what is at stake, Nuno also stated: "We’ve been under pressure since the beginning. Anyone involved in the Premier League, whether they’re a player, a coach, on the board or whatever, is under pressure, because we’re under constant scrutiny. We are being evaluated with every action that we make.
"But the players are used to that, and they are ready. The important thing is that we are together as a team, with the fans. It’s always going to be tough, but it’s easier if we can count on the support we have."