There was one piece of West Ham news that got lost amid the 4-0 win over Wolves and the Hammers climbing out of the relegation zone.
Understandably, the headlines focused on Konstantinos Mavropanos’ dominant display, Taty Castellanos’ brace and the shift in the table above Tottenham.
Opportunity taken when it mattered
But beneath that was a quieter story — one involving Kyle Walker-Peters.
It’s fair to say he hasn’t been a favourite of Nuno Espirito Santo since arriving late last year, largely playing second fiddle to Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Nothing wrong with that, of course. Walker-Peters came in on a free, while Wan-Bissaka was last season’s Player of the Year.
Form beginning to shift the narrative
The reality, though, is Wan-Bissaka hasn’t quite hit those same levels in recent months.
And during that time, Walker-Peters has shown he’s more than capable when called upon.
Big performance against Wolves
Against Wolves, with Wan-Bissaka still in Congo attending celebrations following World Cup qualification, Walker-Peters was handed a start.
He took it.
It was an excellent performance — one that will not have gone unnoticed.
Case for a starting place grows
Add in the fact he also stepped up and converted his penalty in the FA Cup shootout against Leeds, and it points to a player making a strong case.
Decision for Palace looks obvious
On that form, he fully deserves to start against Crystal Palace next Monday.
And I suspect that’s exactly what will happen
Yes. A committed Hammer for sure.
Must go for back three for next three games
That is how it should be Gonzo. This is the way to get a squad playing for the club That would be good management by Nuno
Exactly right Rob
AWB and KWP are both experienced pros so whichever is in best form should get the shirt. Very simple really.
I would share the minutes, 60/30.
AWB to start against his former club gives him serious motivation to put in maximum effort.
KWP starts on the bench and comes on, also with seious intentions attacking a knackerd defence after their midweek game