Peter Lynch

Fri 15 September 2023 10:10, UK

West Ham have made a superb start to the new Premier League season, with the club unbeaten in their first four matches.

The Hammers currently sit joint-second in the league table, two points behind Manchester City, their upcoming opponents.

It has been a real joint effort from David Moyes and his players, with the club’s supporters also playing a key role as usual.

But perhaps it is the likes of exciting winger Jarrod Bowen, midfield maestro Lucas Paqueta and star striker Michail Antonio who have perhaps stolen most of the headlines.

The trio have all played central roles so far this season, and absolutely deserve all the plaudits going their way.

But somewhat slightly away from the limelight is summer signing Edson Alvarez, undoubtedly due to his more defensive role on the pitch.

It is a role that he has carried out expertly during his brief time in East London so far, with the Mexican international particularly shining in one key area.

According to the official Premier League website (12 September), no midfielder has made more clearances per 90 minutes than the Hammers ace in the competition this season.

For players who have played a minimum of 180 minutes, Alvarez sits top of the list in this regard, boasting a figure of 6.39 clearances per 90.

Second on the list is his Hammers teammate Tomas Soucek (5.34), followed by Manchester United star Casemiro (3.25).

Discussing Alvarez’s start to life at his new club, pundit Adrian Clarke wrote for the official Premier League website (12 September): “The Mexico international is excellent at screening the back four, and is not afraid to step in and make challenges.

“When West Ham have been put under pressure the 25-year-old has also acted as an auxiliary central defender to good effect. Dropping back like teammate Soucek does, Alvarez has repelled a lot of early-season attacks.”

In other West Ham news, a journalist has shared a “surprise” Hammers top-four verdict as a “define the narrative” claim is made.