Moyes must find Antonio alternative

Antonio alternative by Gonzo

I’m unconcerned with Michail Antonio’s verbal outburst ahead of the Premier League clash against Liverpool. There are many blaming the defeat (and Liverpool’s motivation) on the forwards pre-match goading.

It’s a suggestion which does Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp a disservice. They are a highly motivated and energetic team, who don’t need to listen to Callum Wilson’s and Antonio’s podcast in order to gain impetus before a match.

What I am concerned with however, is Antonio’s inability to win a single header during the match. He was bullied and battered by Liverpool’s defenders, and failed to threaten Alison’s goal. This is despite being served a glorious chance on a silver platter by the most unlikely of sources . . . Tomas Soucek.

In short, Antonio was ineffective and David Moyes must find a backup plan.

So step forward Divin Mubama who surely deserves a chance to lead the line against Lincoln City. The League Cup clash gives Moyes the perfect opportunity to see if the youngster has what it takes.

Ings is the wrong alternative

I suspect the Hammers manager will select Danny Ings for the game though. The former Villa striker is clearly ill equipped to play in the way David Moyes requires his forwards to operate. There is a very good reason why Marco Arnautovic and Antonio have thrived under Moyes. It’s precisely the same reason why penalty box predators such as Sebastien Haller and Chicharito have failed.

Moyes requires a fast, workhorse who can operate wide and outmuscle as well as outpace his marker. Put bluntly, Mubama is suited to the job and Ings isn’t.

Were Antonio to sustain a serious injury, Danny Ings couldn’t lead the line for the remainder of the season. So perhaps it’s time we found out if someone else can.