Stand by for a Moyes defensive shake-up

David Moyes – like most decent managers – believes it all starts at the back and will surely realise there is a massive reorganisation needed in the Hammers defence.

Had we not seen Angelo Ogbonna “all over the place” as Gary Neville put it, for the Leicester goal last night, we could well have gone on to claim three points.

It wasn’t the first time the Italian has been responsible for a draw rather than a win this season – remember Palace and that awful penalty he gave away. There have been other examples of his uncertainties.

He wasn’t alone with Pablo Zabaleta being dragged out of position by fast moving attackers. It was no surprise to see the Foxes goal originate down his side as Vardy waltzed past to punt over what was no more than a hopeful cross.

We remain stretched in that position and I found myself ensuring I make a check on Sam Byram’s progress this weekend as when we saw him briefly earlier in the season he appeared stronger and less immature.

And I do believe that with Ogbonna in such unpredictable and indifferent form generally, Moysie will need to be telling Declan Rice:  “Your time has come son.”

That may need to happen quickly in order to ensure  that we don’t go wasting millions on a new central defender – Declan deserves the chance to prove he can become a long term solution because – for sure – Ogbonna isn’t.

We need youth and mobility at the back and I believe we may then see Winston Reid return to his best rather than have to cover the back of others.

Aaron Cresswell showed a marked improvement against the Foxes – a result probably of having Masuaku on hand to help him out on various occasions – although it was clear the visitors had targeted the right side of our defence.

Moyes is not a manager to watch those defensive errors and do nothing. It goes against his every instinct. He made some important moves last night – playing Masuaku in a winger role and pushing the record signing to the other side – not to mention dropping the skipper.

I expect further changes for the Everton match – a game of pride for Moysie – and will ne surprised if young Declan doesn’t make his return alongside Reid.

Things looked a better last night…they can get a lot better yet.

COYI