Nuno Espirito Santo has issued his backing for Jarrod Bowen as the West Ham United captain looks to lead his side out of the relegation zone.
Any criticism of Bowen should be tempered. He’s carried West Ham United for what feels like an age now and is putting up good numbers in the Premier League this season.
Still, Bowen struggled for West Ham against Liverpool and anyone who has watched him up close in recent games would surely admit he’s not been at his best.
Why is Jarrod Bowen struggling when we need him most?
That’s not a dig at the player, of course, and is perhaps more of a reflection on the exceptionally high standards to which he’s held.
Asked about Bowen during his pre-match press conference ahead of the Fulham game, Nuno said: “I think Jarrod is a talented player that can always surprise us and give us amazing things.
“He’s been huge for us. He’s the club captain and everyday, he gives his best.”
West Ham fans have criticised Jarrod Bowen
Again, no one is suggesting that Bowen is suddenly a bad player or that he’s not hugely important to the West Ham cause.
However, a group of fans have told Hammers News that Bowen might not be suited to being West Ham captain.
Optimist or Realist? Share your number and defend it in the comments
That does feel somewhat harsh, given his wearing of the armband has not really been a debate during the several games in which he’s proved decisive.
Jarrod Bowen’s record against Fulham
Bowen has made 11 appearances against Fulham over the course of his career.
During that time, he’s scored four goals while registering one assist.
On four occasions, Bowen’s team (West Ham or Hull) have beaten the Cottagers, losing as many and drawing the other three.
Fulham versus West Ham United is a huge game in the context of the relegation battle. If West Ham win it, they’ll go just a point behind bitter rivals Tottenham – a team already in full blown crisis.
This feels like the kind of game in which Bowen can step up and return to his very best form.
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