Moyes ‘un-droppable’ midfield
Not too long ago, if you asked West Ham United fans to predict the midfield composition under David Moyes, it’s unlikely anyone would have guessed the combination that now stands as the backbone of the team. The trio of Tomas Soucek, Edson Alvarez, and James Ward-Prowse has had such a profound impact this season, that they’ve become virtually un-droppable. Their consistency and effectiveness have even kept a player as talented as Lucas Paqueta on the wing, which is a testament to their performance.
Lucas Paqueta is arguably West Ham’s standout player this season. Yet he has found himself deployed out on the wing due to the effectiveness of Alvarez, Ward-Prowse, and Soucek in midfield. Whilst Paqueta is in amazingly good form, this midfield triumvirate is a pragmatic yet efficient combination.
Edson Alvarez brings exceptional defensive qualities to the midfield. His commitment and aggressive style of play make him a pain in the rear end for opposition attackers. Meanwhile, James Ward-Prowse’s prowess in free-kicks and corners appears to be even better than his reputation, providing West Ham with a potent weapon from set-pieces. And then there’s Tomas Soucek, who has rediscovered his goal-scoring touch and is reminiscent of his early days at West Ham, where he was a force to be reckoned with.
Manager David Moyes, known for his cautious approach, is unlikely to tinker with his preferred midfield trio. This leaves other players in the Hammer’s squad with limited opportunities to break into the first team.
Moyes ‘un-droppable’ midfield: Alvarez & James Ward Prowse in training.
Kudus may have to wait
The situation raises questions about the future role of mega talented Mohammed Kudus. With West Ham performing admirably in both the Premier League and cup competitions. Moyes faces the pleasant problem of managing a squad brimming with talent.
West Ham’s midfield three Amigo’s of Soucek, Alvarez, and Ward-Prowse has evolved into an indispensable component for Moyes defensive style. Their chemistry and individual traots have kept even top talents like Paqueta relocated to accommodate them. While this might present a challenge for other aspiring players. It’s a delightful dilemma for Moyes to have as we continue to progress on multiple fronts.
Well Gonzo mate I would like to see Antonio rested and Bowen played in the centre with Kudus in. Mikey has shown signs of fatigue or lack of sharpness lately, and as we all say, Bowens on fire. I would just love to see our skill out there, the good thing is Moyes can now rest Soucek if he wants, and Coufal for Kehrer, and Augerd for Mavro if that works. We have a very strong side to rotate if he wants to.
Hi Pete, that may well be the only way he gets in mate.
Hammerpete6, came here to say that almost word for word. That to me is the answer to us progressing, Moyes loves a converted winger and Bowen finishes in a way Antonio can only dream of and makes the runs a good Striker makes so whilst I don’t want to lose his ability on the wing, Kudus is more than capable to step in and Bowen IMHO is a far better striker than Antonio. I am cautiously optimistic for a good run in all cups and a high placing in the European places at the end of the season. COYI
Hey Gonzo.
I’m still not entirely convinced by Soucek, despite recent goals and a decent performance on Saturday. Perhaps the new contact and Rice’s departure has helped, and I sincerely hope he sharpens up his positional awareness (when defending) and his passing.
For me, the solution is simple. Bowen up to is a given. Kudus on the right. Paqueta on the left (where he’s linking beautifully with Emerson) with license to roam into the middle. When he does, have Emerson push up (wing-back style) and move the back line to the left to cover, with the furthest back of Alvarez or Soucek slotting in.
No doubt that a front three of Paqueta, Bowen and Kudus would be a LOT of fun.
Kudos to Coufal as well this season who is adding a lot of end product to his lung-busting forward runs. Great to see.
All the best.
Kudos to Kudus for his impressive showing in limited opportunities so far. I was just wondering if he could play as a striker as a one up front or in a front two?
As much as Antonio works and tries hard, he sometimes doesn’t quite get the results. And where is is understudy, Mubama? I would have thought that Moyes would have given him a few more minutes by now.