Robinson calls for Moyes to drop axe on West Ham under-performer
Of all the West Ham United players who have underperformed so far this season, the most disappointing has arguably been playmaker Manuel Lanzini.
The Argentine international is undoubtedly one of the most naturally gifted footballers at the club, but hasn’t shown it very often this campaign.
The 26-year-old has failed to score in 20 games in all competitions, while he’s managed only three assists.
Indeed, he has been so bad that former England international Paul Robinson now feels he should be dropped from the team.
“I don’t think in their position they can afford luxury players, luxury players who flit in and out of games,” he told Football Insider.
“David Moyes needs 11 players on the pitch who are willing to work for the shirt, work for him and do everything they can to get a result.
“If players, let’s say luxury players, aren’t performing at the level you expect them [to], you can’t afford to carry passengers.”
Should Lanzini be put on the periphery?
In a word, yes.
The Argentine has had plenty of chances this season, but simply hasn’t been able to deliver. With Felipe Anderson and Andriy Yarmolenko on their way back to full fitness, there’s simply no reason to continue starting him.
Michail Antonio and Pablo Fornals should be automatic starters in attacking midfield – despite Moyes’ strange aversion to the Spaniard – as should Robert Snodgrass given his recent form.
You’ve also got new signing Jarrod Bowen, and so suddenly the competition for places looks a lot more intense for Lanzini.
In other West Ham news, Rio Ferdinand has been speaking about how he fears for his old club this season.