By Liam Thomas

5th Mar, 2023 | 12:40pm

Rafa Benitez already in England amid David Moyes sack speculation at West Ham United

Rafael Benitez has been spotted in England on Saturday at the Etihad Stadium watching the Premier League clash between Manchester City and Newcastle as West Ham links heighten.

The Daily Mail reported on 20 February that Benitez was being put on standby for the West Ham head coach role should David Moyes be sacked.

Reliable Hammers news site SixFootTwo added fuel to the Benitez fire on 21 February claiming that the out-of-work manager wanted a 40-month contract from West Ham.

Now, no one is denying that Moyes has done a terrific job at West Ham. However, all good things must come to an end at some point and the clock is ticking for the Scot.

Benitez would offer the Hammers a completely different playing style, one suited to Premier League survival and European ambitions.

Whilst you can’t get too overly excited at Benitez already being in England, it could be a promising sign that he may be in some form of talks to take over from Moyes.

However, the Scot seemingly still has the backing of the West Ham board which is bizarre given the brutal nature of the 4-0 away defeat to Brighton on 4 March.

David Sullivan coming out and telling Hammers News that he is still backing Moyes for the job is annoying, to say the least, and many fans can agree that it’s time for some changes to be made.

And why not take a punt on Benitez if Moyes is to go? He has a Premier League pedigree and a proven track record of winning trophies and getting points on the board.

This squad is far too talented to be wasted under Moyes’ guidance, something that has become painful to watch in recent weeks and months.

Just imagine what the likes of Lucas Paqueta and Declan Rice could do under the tutorage of a master tactician like Benitez.

It’s a mouthwatering prospect.