Nuno Has Huge Decision to Make if West Ham Are to See The Real Jarrod Bowen Back

For the past week, it’s been almost impossible to move without hearing speculation surrounding Jarrod Bowen’s future.

But as West Ham and Arsenal prepare to face off at the London Stadium tomorrow, it’s the present which matters far more than the future.

Because whilst Bowen’s commitment and dedication to the cause can never be questioned, his recent performances haven’t quite hit the standards we’ve become accustomed to.

Bowen Still Producing… But it Ain’t The Same

Of course, his overall output remains impressive.

His ability to create chances for others has been excellent, while his delivery from corners has arguably been one of the standout parts of his game this season.

But in terms of direct attacking threat and goals, he just doesn’t quite look the same player.

That could be tactical. It could be, as I suspect, that Jarrod is carrying an injury.

Or perhaps he’s simply emotionally exhausted after years of carrying this football club on his back.

Nuno Has A Huge Decision To Make

Whatever the reason, none of it really matters now.

Because if West Ham are going to stand any chance of beating Arsenal, we need our captain in absolute top form.

And that brings the focus straight back onto Nuno Espírito Santo.

There’s little doubt Nuno has fixed many of the defensive issues which were so obvious under Julen Lopetegui and Graham Potter.

But in Bowen’s case, it’s arguably come at the expense of his attacking game.

Bowen Needs To Hurt Arsenal Higher Up The Pitch

Too often we’ve seen our best goalscorer operating almost as a right-back.

And whilst there’s a strong argument that defensive discipline will be needed tomorrow, every minute Bowen spends deep in his own half reduces his ability to hurt Arsenal at the other end.

Nuno needs to find a way to isolate him one-on-one against the full-back in advanced areas.

Better still, get him drifting into central positions, arriving late and causing chaos around the box.

That’s when Bowen is at his most dangerous.

Summerville Could Be Key Too

I also suspect West Ham will need a huge performance from Crysencio Summerville on the opposite flank.

And I’ve got a feeling we might get one.

But for all the talent in this squad, Bowen has consistently stood head and shoulders above everyone else over the years.

And tomorrow, West Ham are going to need him more than ever.