Mubama stand-off will increase pressure on Moyes

Divin Mubama’s choice to decline a new contract offer from West Ham is certain to increase the pressure on David Moyes. The stand-off from Mubama only adds to the growing frustration concerning the perceived lack of opportunities for talented academy graduates in the first team.

Mubama’s absence from the Hammers first team didn’t attract much attention a month ago when the team were performing well in the Premier League. However, the spotlight has focused on Moyes as the team’s performance deteriorates, our goals dry up.

Give the lad a chance

West Ham’s recent three consecutive losses have exposed our inability to find the back of the net. Given the team’s offensive struggles, it’s odd that Mubama hasn’t been given more playing time. In fact, it appears that he saw more action last season, so I can understand his reluctance to commit to a new contract.

Mubama stand-off will increase pressure on Moyes

I just can’t fathom why Moyes consistently chooses Danny Ings over Mubama as the backup striker. Ings had the opportunity to start in games against Lincoln City, Backa Topola, and Olympiacos, but none of those matches yielded a goal for him. Furthermore, Ings is currently enduring a 20-game goal drought, the longest in his career. Mubama must be asking himself . . . ‘If I can’t get into the team now, I’ll not get in at all’.

I assume Mubama’s hesitation to sign a new contract stems from his desire for more playing time. While financial factors may also be in play, it seems that his primary concern is a lack of opportunities on the field. However, I should point out, that’s only my reading of the situation.

This is a situation that Moyes can easily address, but he must do so promptly, as the pressure on his managerial position is mounting. Moyes can afford to exclude West Ham’s young players when the team is winning, but if the team is losing and performing poorly, he will face increased scrutiny.