Like most West Ham fans, I breathed a big sigh of relief when the team sheet dropped ahead of yesterday’s victory over Newcastle United.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s experimental line-ups against Brentford and Leeds had failed miserably, and there were real fears he might try something equally baffling again. But as the starting elevens were revealed just over an hour before kick-off, it finally looked like the manager had put square pegs in square holes… almost.
While midfield and full-back were sensibly addressed, Espirito Santo still decided to tinker with his centre-backs — albeit with an interesting twist. Max Kilman was shifted to the right side of defence and given licence to push forward, with Freddie Potts dropping in to support Jean-Clair Todibo.
Todibo had an impressive game for West Ham against Newcastle
Todibo Finds His Form
Kilman’s average position in the first half was almost as advanced as Potts, Wan-Bissaka, and Malick Diouf, often drifting into what looked like a right-back role. That left Todibo as the deepest defender — a setup that, admittedly, gave me a nasty case of squeaky bum-itis.
But I needn’t have worried. The Frenchman produced arguably his best performance in a West Ham shirt and, dare I say it, actually looked like he was enjoying defending.
Statistically, he was superb — winning almost all his duels and making nine interceptions, more than any other player on the pitch. It sounds strange to say this about a £35 million signing, but Todibo finally looked like a proper defender — and one relishing the battle.
Reinforcements will still be needed in January, of course, but this was a much-improved defensive display — and Todibo more than played his part in it.
He played well and I thought Areola did well too, coming to punch out corners with a bit more oomph than usual. Great to see their enthusiasm and playing for each other.
I was happy to see Todibo play so well, although had not picked up on the tactical changes themselves (interesting) but he looked good. He came across like a sweeper once, jostled the NU player and hoofed the ball into touch – then he was fist pumping and shouting out to the crowd. I think getting to play regularly and trusted, is a massive change for him while at WHU. Three different managers and never really trusted till now – that will help.
My thoughts on Todibo are that he always looked unfit and needed a run in the team to get his match fitness and once that happened he’d be a better player.
Couldn’t agree with you more Gonzo , at last a decent defender emerged ! Here’s hoping it continues COYI ⚒⚒
Agree with you, Gonzo. Seeing Kilman gallivanting upfield without a leash made me wince but Todibo’s surprisingly excellent performance gave me some reassurance. I think that’s the best I have seen Todibo play for us so far. And long may it continue! There was much to admire throughout a very good team effort against Newcastle.