Jeff Stelling admits he was wrong about West Ham star after win v Newcastle
Jeff Stelling has been made to eat his own words about West Ham midfielder Carlos Soler after the win against Newcastle United on Monday.
The Hammers travelled to St James’ on 25 November and came away with a surprising three points thanks to goals from Tomas Soucek and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
This came as a surprise to many but speaking live on talkSPORT (26 November), Stelling was left blown away by the midfield trio who had him worried pre-match.
He said: “When I looked at that West Ham midfield that started of Paqueta, Soler and Soucek, I thought this was going to be a battering but how wrong. They all did great, Soler I thought was terrific.”
Jeff Stelling eats words after West Ham win v Newcastle
Julen Lopetegui has come under heavy scrutiny in recent weeks with the clash against the Magpies seen as a must-win to save his job in East London.
This was exactly what the Spaniard got in a result which took a lot of onlookers by surprise, especially given that the home side dominated large spells of the game.
With that being said, it was positive to see the Hammers dig deep and grind out a result, a quality which has been missing in recent weeks.
The midfield three had a lot to do with the positive result with Paqueta winning Sky Sports’ Man of the Match while Soucek grabbed a goal and Soler has been picked out for praise.
There was a worry that this trio wouldn’t have the defensive ability to deal with a Newcastle side which boasted the likes of Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon and Joelinton going forward.
Eddie Howe’s side was able to make chances but couldn’t take them as the Irons’ midfield and defensive line played their part to keep their lead.
In other West Ham news, Jamie Carragher and Theo Walcott reacted immediately to the controversial Newcastle footage.
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