Will Michail Antonio’s return from injury spark West Ham?
Will Michail Antonio’s return from injury spark West Ham ?
This question hangs heavy as manager David Moyes keeps his cards close regarding the striker’s availability for the upcoming clash against Forest
Antonio’s influence on the Hammers is undeniable. Praised by pundits like Alan Shearer for his physical prowess and attacking threat, he can single-handedly turn games on his day. However, his inconsistency and occasional lapses in effort make him a figure who divides the West Ham faithful.
Since succumbing to injury on international duty, Antonio’s absence has been keenly felt. While Jarrod Bowen and Muhammad Kudus have bravely stepped up, neither possess the same imposing presence on the pitch. Youngster Divin Mubama, touted as a potential replacement, sadly does not appear ready for the challenge
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Throughout his second tenure, Moyes has built his game plan around Antonio’s versatility. He’s been the target man, the focal point of attack, and the catalyst for lightning-fast counter-attacks.
Throughout his second tenure, Moyes has built his game plan around Antonio’s versatility. He’s been the target man, the focal point of attack, and the catalyst for lightning-fast counter-attacks.
Some fans, eager for fresh blood, celebrated his injury as the end of an era. However, his absence has exposed a critical gap in West Ham’s attacking force.
Antonio’s West Ham legacy is undeniable. His dedication and impact over nine years, earning back his £7m transfer fee many times over, cannot be dismissed.
While Moyes’ attempts to acquire a new striker during the January window failed, a fit Antonio is likely the answer at hand. His return could be the missing puzzle piece to revitalise West Ham’s attack and stop our slide down the table.
I would like to see Moyes try something different, as we all would. I would opt for a 4-1-3-2 formation with:
Areola (1)
Emerson (3), Aguerd (4) , Dinos (5), Coufal (2)
Alvarez (6)
Kudus (7), JWP (8), Bowen (11)
Ings (10), Antonio (9)
I think Ings plays the 10 role better than as a 9, and whilst he doesn’t have the pace he once had, he can link up with JWP, in the hole, to feed out wide to Bowen and Kudus, and into Antonio. He could also feed off Antonio’s knock ons.
For me, JWP has to offer more in the centre of the park. He has great feet, but needs to look for the ball more. Phillips can come on for the last 20 if JWP struggles, as can Soucek for Alvarez when he inevitably walks the tightrope. Mubama to get his chance with 30 left when Antonio fades.
That would be my setup, along with a faster, ball on the ground, higher press style.