credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Tue 11 March 2025 15:10, UK

West Ham’s defeat to Newcastle highlighted one major flaw that has been present since the appointment of Graham Potter.

When the Irons secured victory against Arsenal and Leicester, many thought they had turned a corner and were heading in the right direction.

However, a 1-0 defeat at home to Newcastle United has seen that shadow of concern re-emerge over the London Stadium, and it doesn’t paint a pretty picture for Potter.

Since arriving at West Ham, Potter has been the driving force behind several improvements, though he is also the reason behind one growing concern.

West Ham are struggling to create

Dating back to the win against Arsenal, West Ham have improved significantly defensively, but it has certainly come at a cost.

Since the appointment of Potter, no team in the Premier League has averaged fewer shots per game, showcasing the frailties they have in the final third.

It’s a surprise when you consider the level of quality that the Irons have in that area of the pitch, with the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Jarrod Bowen potentially showing that the issue has less to do with personnel and more to do with the tactics.

Of course, Potter is working with a team that he inherited, and that needs to come into consideration. However, finding a way to get the best out of the squad you have been handed is crucial, and so far, he’s failing to do that in an attacking sense.

With nothing left to play for this season, there is no harm in attacking games.

Kudus needs to up his game at West Ham

Bowen has been the one and only regular threat for West Ham for this season, and it doesn’t shine a positive light on Kudus.

To put it straight, Kudus has struggled massively for the Irons this campaign, and he is capable of far more than he has showcased in the last few months.

Potter has his part to play in getting the forward back at the top of his game, but he needs to adapt his game personally to ensure he can contribute regularly.