Opinion

Jarrod Bowen’s response to Thomas Tuchel could save West Ham United after all

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It will be fascinating to see how Jarrod Bowen responds to his England snub in what is surely his biggest ever game for West Ham United. 

Bowen himself is on record as saying that keeping West Ham United in the Premier League would be a bigger moment than winning the Conference League, after all. 

Nuno wants to make YOU proud – so where do you think we finish in the table when all is said and done on Sunday?!

A graphic showing Nuno Espirito Santo's quotes before West Ham's Premier League game with Leeds reading; "We know we represent a huge club, and we have to try and make our fans proud." Image shows Nuno Espirito Santo speaking during a West Ham United press conference.
Credit: Getty Images/Vince Mignott/MB Media

Heading into West Ham’s huge clash against Leeds on Sunday, it was confirmed that Bowen will not go to the 2026 World Cup with England

Understandably, Bowen is upset about not being called up for England, but there is no time to wallow in that disappointment. 

Bowen must react to England snub by stepping up for West Ham in Premier League decider

Despite amassing 18 goal contributions in the Premier League this season, Bowen’s form has been criticised by West Ham fans.

The captain has not scored in the league since January, and that is arguably what has cost him a seat on the plane with England.

Pretend you’re Nuno – what changes are you making ahead of Leeds? 👀

If anyone says keep the back five, I'll be shocked 😂

A graphic with the text reading: "Question - what changes should Nuno make against Leeds?" Image shows West Ham head coach Nuno Espirito Santo.
Credit: Getty Images/Tiego Grenho/MI News/NurPhoto

While criticism of a player who has consistently pulled the Irons out of the fire should always be tempered given all he’s done for the club, it simply has not been good enough in recent weeks.

There is a very real chance that the forward is gearing up for his final-ever game for the club. While nothing is guaranteed, Bowen has been tipped to leave West Ham if they are relegated

His career here in east London is at major risk of fizzling out without another goal. That would not be a fitting ending to what has often looked like a fairytale story.

West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen looks dejected
Photo by Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images

Clearly, West Ham are reliant on Everton beating Tottenham if they are to stay in the Premier League on the final day.

Still, it will not matter what happens in north London unless the Hammers do their own job and beat Leeds. 

Bowen is crucial to their chances against the Yorkshire giants. If he can respond to the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup by stepping up for West Ham, one of the stars that must align to keep them up will move into place somewhat.