Todibo slammed for ‘terrible’ moment on Sky Sports in West Ham win v Newcastle
Jean-Clair Todibo was blasted as “terrible” by Andy Hinchcliffe after a lapse almost allowed Newcastle United to equalise against West Ham United on Monday night.
Todibo let Anthony Gordon in by messing up a clearance as the ball arrived in the Hammers area while leading 1-0 at St James’ Park, only for Lukasz Fabianski to do enough to stop Gordon scoring.
The Frenchman – who was also the subject of Newcastle interest in the summer [The Athletic, 12 September] before moving to the London Stadium – ended up forced off injured after 55 minutes in a game the Hammers went on to win 2-0.
Hinchcliffe, live on Sky Sports [25 November, 20:36] said: “Anthony Gordon should be scoring – if he lifts it over the goalkeeper, it’s 1-1.
“Terrible defending from Todibo. How quickly a game can get away from you when you make a mistake, and it should’ve been capitalised on.
“Really poor clearance.”
Jean-Clair Todibo has endured poor start at West Ham United
Despite a night to remember and potential season-turner for West Ham on Tyneside, Todibo’s injury was a blemish.
The French international joined on loan from Nice in the summer with a £34million permanent move set to be triggered after the end of the season, but he has struggled to adapt to English football so far.
Aside from the mistake with which he escaped without consequence, he actually had a pretty decent game and was able to help halt a dangerous Newcastle attacking outlet.
Konstantinos Mavropanos – who replaced him early in the second half – has shown ability but been inconsistent, and it remains an issue Julen Lopetegui and his staff must iron out.
The result, however, is bound to give an unexpected boost in confidence – but this time must be sustained with Arsenal up next.
In other West Ham news, Emerson produces a “perfect” moment to help his side to victory.
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