Discussing the issues surrounding the club’s record signing, the former Chelsea, Blackburn, Norwich and Celtic striker said: “Had I been subjected to the abuse Marko Arnautovic received when going back I would have celebrated with equal vigour.
“Good on him for giving the Hammers sign — it told me he has plenty of fire his his belly.
He looks a totally different player since David Moyes arrived. He is looking lean, mean and hungry. Plenty of incoming managers say they will improve the players’ fitness.
This is the first time I have noticed a real difference. West Ham are running four miles further per match than they were under Slaven Bilic.
Arnautovic has clearly responded and is becoming West Ham’s first-choice No 9. He has the physicality and ability to thrive as the lone striker.
Andy Carroll is not as mobile and Javier Hernandez’s hold-up play is not as good.”
With more composed finishing, Arnautovic could have scored a bagful on Saturday. It only bodes well for West Ham… and Stoke must realise what they have lost.”