Loss of top midfielder may have seriously harmed Hammers Euro bid
West Ham have been dealt a significant blow with key midfielder Edson Alvarez facing a fresh ban, side-lining him for three out of the next four games across all competitions.
Alvarez has become a crucial figure in David Moyes’ squad since his arrival last summer, will be sorely missed during this critical phase of the season. In many respects, he has been one of the teams most consistent performers this season.
His absence raises concerns, particularly as the team’s midfield performance often hinge on his presence, much like the attack’s reliance on Lucas Paqueta.
Alvarez’s accumulation of ten yellow cards in the Premier League, including one during the recent 1-1 draw against Aston Villa, triggers a two-match domestic suspension. Additionally, his booking in the 5-0 victory over Freiburg in midweek incited criticism toward Moyes for not substituting him earlier in the game, considering the comfortable lead.
Loss of top midfielder Alvarez could prove costly in West Ham’s Euro push
That being said, I do believe that Alvarez himself must take most of the blame for his dual suspension. Both cards were completely avoidable and the player himself would have been acutely aware of their consequence.
This yellow card also results in a one-game European ban, effectively ruling him out for three of West Ham’s upcoming four fixtures in all competitions.
The absence of Alvarez will be felt keenly, especially during crucial Premier League encounters against Newcastle United and Tottenham following the international break. These matches could prove pivotal in West Ham’s pursuit of securing a Europa League berth, making Alvarez’s suspension particularly untimely.
I guess it will finally give Kalvin Phillips a run of games to step up . . . but he has big boots to fill.