Lopetegui makes ‘no one safe’ at West Ham United with major decision
Frank McAvennie applauded Julen Lopetegui’s decision to hook Lucas Paqueta at half-time between West Ham and Manchester United on Sunday (27 October).
The Brazilian was replaced by Tomas Soucek after a frustrating first half of football at the London Stadium, adding to an already disappointing campaign for the creative midfielder.
Paqueta only lasted 61 minutes on the pitch against Tottenham before being hooked, and he was given even less time on the pitch as the Hammers eventually claimed a 2-1 win over the Red Devils.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, McAvennie said: “It might just be down to how they’re playing, he’s possibly not buying into the new style. But if Paqueta or anyone else isn’t performing well, I’m happy for Lopetegui to get them off.
“There are other players desperate for a game, so I’m happy that he’s got the balls to take him off at half-time. It means everyone will have to put the effort in so fair play to the manager.
“He’s one of the top players at West Ham so it shows everyone else that nobody is safe if you don’t try and don’t do what the manager wants you to do. I would imagine he just wants his players to work hard.”
Lucas Paqueta continues to underperform at West Ham United
Paqueta has been one of the most important players for the Hammers since arriving in the summer of 2022, notching 15 goals and 14 assists since.
However, many fans have been disappointed with his displays so far, and Lopetegui clearly feels the same after not impressing enough to come out for the second half at the London Stadium.
He does have two goals to his name this term, but considering how influential he has been during his time in East London, his displays are a far cry from what has become to be expected of him.
In other West Ham news, the club have approached the staff of a new striker whose exit is seen as “inevitable”.
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