McAvennie tips Bowen to replace Lingard for West Ham clash v Man United
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…
Jarrod Bowen will replace Jesse Lingard in the West Ham starting line-up when the Irons play Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, according to Frank McAvennie.
Lingard, 28, has been in sensational form for the Hammers since joining the London club on loan from Man United in the January transfer window, scoring four goals and supplying two assists in six Premier League appearances.
However, he won’t be available for selection this weekend with the England attacker ineligible to play for West Ham against his parent club.
Ex-West Ham striker McAvennie claims his former club will suffer from not having Lingard in the side and believes Moyes will replace the Man United loanee with 24-year-old Bowen.
“We’re going to miss that enthusiasm and energy of Lingard. I’d get that deal done,” McAvennie told West Ham Zone.
When asked if he thinks Bowen will replace Lingard, McAvennie simply said: “Yes.”
Bowen’s standing in the West Ham squad has suffered slightly due to Lingard’s arrival and subsequent form at the London Stadium.
The former Hull winger, who Moyes signed permanently from Hull last January, had started all but one of West Ham’s matches prior to Lingard’s arrival in the winter.
However, since Lingard’s West Ham debut against Aston Villa on February 3, Bowen has started just three of six games.
It’s nothing against Bowen but Lingard has simply been better and as McAvennie says, we’re going to miss the Man United loanee’s impact this weekend.
Let’s hope a permanent deal is sought out for Lingard in the summer.
Based on his first six appearances for the Hammers, he would be a superb permanent addition to Moyes’ attack.
In other West Ham news, the Irons are eyeing up Rochdale teenager Kwadwo Baah.