Whispers

Mubama has impressed Hammers teammate

Mubama has impressed Hammers defender Mavropanos

Konsantinos Mavropanos (or Dinos to his mates) has given Divin Mubama a glowing report. Speaking ahead of Thursday’s crunch Europa game, Dinos told the press why the fixture remains important despite being top of the group.

The Hammers defender seem determined to secure a victory against FK TSC Bačka Topola tomorrow night, aiming to qualify for the UEFA Europa League knockout stages. A win in Serbia would propel the Irons to at least the play-off round, positioning us against a third-place UEFA Champions League group-stage finisher. Additionally, it would bring us within a point of securing the top spot with a draw against SC Freiburg on matchday six.

Given Newcastle’s draw against PSG last night, it would be wise to avoid the perils of a play-off.

For Mavropanos, the game presents a significant opportunity, having made his debut in the reverse fixture against FK TSC in September. Reflecting on his debut, he expressed satisfaction with the experience but also emphasised the team’s focus on securing a victory in the upcoming match.

Dinos impressed with Mubama

Dinos admitted the team haven’t been playing their best football in possession during recent Premier League matches. Mavropanos acknowledged the squad have fallen some way short of performance levels, but stressed the importance of victories. Substance over style seemed to be a recurring message throughout.

Mavropanos also praised James Ward-Prowse’s set-piece deliveries as a significant threat, which can see the team over the line. When asked about the impact of Divin Mubama, Dinos said. “It’s really nice to watch Divin score, I think he wanted it a lot and I think it’s important for him that he came on and helped score an important goal for the team.

He has a lot of qualities. He likes to run in behind and also have the ball into his feet and his finishing is also very good. He’s a good player and he works really hard. It’s not only about the age. The quality is there and it’s always good to play against him in training.”

Share this article

Kris Gonzo (commonly known to the West Ham community as Gonzo) is the co-founder of Hammers Chat (established 2014) and the lead video content creator and columnist for Claret and Hugh.

With over a decade of professional sports media experience, he is a frequent West Ham United analyst and contributor for Sky Sports News, BBC Football Focus, and BBC Radio 5 Live. He previously served as an official video and content creator for West Ham United FC during the club's tenure at Upton Park and featured in the official documentary commemorating the historic final game at the Boleyn Ground.

A lifelong Hammer since the legendary 10-0 victory over Bury, when he isn't providing daily match analysis on the Hammers Chat YouTube Channel or broadcasting on X (@GONZObignose), he can be found walking his dog and restoring classic pinball machines.