Emerson spotted in ‘Unbelievable’ moment in West Ham United loss v Manchester City
Jamie Redknapp believes Emerson should have done more to stop Erling Haaland from scoring his second as West Ham lost 3-1 to Manchester City on Saturday (31 August).
The Norweigan forward opened the scoring at the London Stadium before the Hammers were handed a lifeline through a Ruben Dias own goal, only for the striker to go on and score another hattrick.
Haaland was in the right place at the right time to slot home Man City’s second of the evening, though Redknapp was critical of Emerson’s defending before the striker unleashed his shot.
Speaking live via Sky Sports on Saturday (31 August, 6:24pm), he said: “Emerson has to do better there. You know Haaland wants to get the ball onto his left foot. You cannot let him.
“It’s easier said than done, but show him onto his right foot. It’s an unbelievable touch and finish from Haaland.”
Emerson stinks in West Ham United defeat v Manchester City
As defenders have regularly found out, the idea of stopping Haaland from hitting the back of the net and actually doing it are two very different things.
The criticism of Emerson feels rather harsh, especially as multiple players were around the Man City man when he unleashed the strike, but the players will certainly feel the moment could have been thwarted.
The Italian full-back has been a regular favourite at the London Stadium, having made 35 Premier League starts under David Moyes, but his early substitution said everything.
He was replaced by Vladimir Coufal after just 70 minutes, having been run ragged by the City attack, and Lopetegui may also feel that his defender should have done better with his marking.
While the Hammers will be disappointed not to get at least a point out of the match, their season will not come down to the meetings against Pep Guardiola’s side.
In other West Ham news, Nayef Aguerd looks to have severed all ties with the club after what he said today.
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