You have to hand it to Mark Noble – the timeless Hammers skipper who continually defies the odds!
Good judges – and few come better than The Ginger Pele – gave the Hammers loyalist any serious chance of becoming a permanent part of Manuel Pellegrini’s plans.
Indeed the manager himself, soon after his arrival, admitted he would stay skipper but added with seemingly heavy significance: “He will be skipper when he plays but I can’t tell you how many games that will be!.”
That was followed by Collins – whose judgement would seem pretty nailed on – casting doubts over his future under the Hammers boss.
Reluctantly as he shared his fondness for Noble, Ginge was forced to admit that he didn’t believe that the veteran midfielder would struggle under the boss.
Well said Hugh. Much of the criticism levelled at Nobes comes largely from the ‘get it forward at all costs’ brigade who are just as quick to moan when the ball is knocked aimlessly forward only to be given away.
Nobes has always prioritised retaining possession until the right opportunity arises to make a decisive pass. Unfortunately we have largely lacked the quality of player to complement his ability, if the movement is good Nobes will find the right pass – Man U game being a fine example. Ok,he’s not getting any younger and his effort to close down the Brighton player before he crossed for Murray’s goal was a bit painful to watch but he would be in my first eleven every time.
Whether you like him or not, we always lack composure when he’s not playing and give the ball away far too cheaply. Nobes is often criticised for passing backwards or sideways, watch Liverpool, Man City and Chelsea closely and see how many times the ball goes backwards when a forward ball is too risky in terms of giving away possession. I’ve always thought Mark Noble could have done much better in a slicker side but I’m glad he’s stayed with us and with the quality of forward players we now have, we could see a renaissance for our skipper.
Well said Hammersmiff. Nobes for me epitomises the best of the East London spirit I used to know; a reason to believe West Ham is still my team, despite leaving the area in the 70s.