Jarrod Bowen to be ruled out as West Ham United injury news causes shock
We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium…
Frank McAvennie believes Jarrod Bowen will only be fit enough to make the bench when West Ham United travel to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United on Sunday (21 January).
The Evening Standard reported on 16 January that, despite initial fears, that Bowen could face months on the sidelines, he could make a surprise return to David Moyes’ squad against the Blades.
Bowen has been ruled out of the FA Cup clash with Bristol City at Aston Gate on Tuesday (16 January) after suffering a blow to his ankle in the 1-1 draw between the two clubs, but new optimism has now emerged at the London Stadium.
Speaking to West Ham Zone, McAvennie said: “Wow, it’s going to be strange what team Moyes puts out against Bristol City and we’ll get an indication of his approach against Sheffield United on Sunday.
“I don’t believe Bowen will play at Ashton Gate which will be encouragement for Bristol City but he may be only fit enough to make the bench against Sheffield United, I think.
“Hopefully, we don’t need him against Sheffield United but if Moyes feels he’s a risk worth taking then he should go it for it, with extra caution of course.“
With Lucas Paqueta ruled out for up to two months, Michail Antonio facing yet another injury setback, and Mohammed Kudus taking part in the Africa Cup of Nations, West Ham are in dire need of attacking inspiration right now.
Fears over the potential severity of Bowen’s blow were high given the swelling around his ankle as he limped off in the 1-1 draw with Bristol City at the London Stadium, but news that he could now return as soon as 21 January will be a huge boost to the Hammers.
However, whether he will be ready enough to start the game at Bramall Lane or even feature is another matter entirely so it will certainly be a critical decision for Moyes to take, especially with the importance of Sunday’s encounter.
The Bowen update could well change the course of the Irons plans in the January window but given the uncertain futures of Said Benrahma, Danny Ings and Pablo Fornals, it would be beneficial if the Hammers can complete a signing this month, even if it is a loan transfer.
In other West Ham news, early team news has broken ahead of the Bristol City game.