Julen Lopetegui must take Mohammed Kudus risk at West Ham United after what happened today
West Ham United boss Julen Lopetegui has to take a risk with Mohammed Kudus to become a success in East London this season.
The 24-year-old was deployed behind the striker for Ghana in the 1-0 loss to Angola on Thursday (5 September) and produced a dazzling display, despite his side losing.
Lopetegui could only watch on as his side suffered two defeats in their opening three Premier League games, most recently being brushed aside 3-1 by reigning Premier League champions Manchester City.
Kudus, Lucas Paqueta, Jarrod Bowen and Michael Antonio struggled to get into the game, but the Hammers could have the solution to overturn their fortunes following in the footsteps of Ghana boss Otto Addo.
Mohammed Kudus position change is key for West Ham United
All West Ham supporters are aware of the quality that Kudus possesses and Lopetegui will need to get the best out of his Ghanian attacker if his side are to mount a serious push for the European places this season.
Two defeats in three matches is a far-from-ideal start to life in East London for the new boss. He has been backed with an influx of new signings by owner David Sullivan, and with that investment comes the demands of instant success.
On paper, the Hammers have more than enough quality across the pitch to make an ascent up the Premier League table. The question for Lopetegui is which players fit into his strongest starting lineup – and where.
Kudus was underwhelming against Man City. Despite an impressive start to the season, he was dispossessed 12 times, only completed 50 per cent of his dribbles, and failed to register a shot on target in the match [Sofascore].
That was in his usual position on the flanks. In the number 10 role, however, albeit against weaker opposition, he thrived. He recorded two shots on target, one key pass, 96 per cent pass accuracy and completed three out of his five attempted dribbles [Sofascore].
The forward has been tipped to star for any side in the Premier League and he certainly has the quality. Lopetegui needs to play Kudus behind the striker against Aston Villa, like he does for his country, after the international break and reap the rewards.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have been offered to sign free agent Yusuf Yazici.
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