Credit: BBC Match of the Day/Imago

Scott Mason

Sun 15 March 2026 7:05, UK

Ashley Williams could not help but pile on the compliments for West Ham United defender Konstantinos Mavropanos after the Hammers drew 1-1 with Manchester City.

It was a crucial point in the relegation battle for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side on Saturday, who have now put both Nottingham Forest and Tottenham under immense pressure.

The fixture against the Citizens was the Irons’ toughest over the next five, but after proving they have the heart and desire to compete, that will fill them with plenty of confidence for their upcoming games.

The away side had plenty of chances to score, taking 24 shots compared to the E20 outfit’s sole effort.

It was Mavropanos who took that shot, and the Greek’s display for West Ham against Man City caught the attention of Williams.

What did Ashley Williams say about Konstantinos Mavropanos against Man City?

After weeks of using a back four, Nuno decided to switch things up by utilising three of his central defensive options against Man City.

It was a tactical decision that ultimately persevered as a resilient performance got the point over the line at London Stadium.

Former Premier League defender Williams was left impressed with the whole West Ham backline, but Mavropanos in particular stood out to him.

Williams said on Match of the Day: “He was in the middle of that back three; I thought he communicated well, and he organised the two centre-backs well to the left and right of him.

“You see his numbers there. By the way, he scored an amazing goal to bring West Ham back into the game, so I was really impressed with him.”

The numbers Williams cited clearly show the impact the Greek defender had on the game.

Mavropanos made more clearances and interceptions than any of his West Ham teammates, while also winning the second most duels and aerial duels.

Mavropanos was certainly one of West Ham’s best performers on Saturday night.

Have West Ham put themselves in the survival driving seat?

Hammers fans will be waiting for the results from Spurs and Nottingham Forest’s games to come through this weekend, but ahead of next week, they are in a great position.

Both the Lilywhites and the Tricky Trees face off against each other on 22 March, where one or both teams are guaranteed to drop points.

The Irons have a tough test away at Villa Park, but after battling well against Pep Guardiola’s side, Nuno will no doubt instil belief they can secure another crucial result.

Depending on how the other two teams get on and that game against Aston Villa, the East London club could give themselves a nice cushion going into the international break.