Said Benrahma must rise up to the challenge after David Moyes admission
Said Benrahma scored his first goal for West Ham this season as the Hammers returned to winning ways with a 2-0 victory over Bournemouth on Monday night (24 October).
The 27-year-old attacking midfielder impressed during his cameo roles against Southampton and Liverpool, and it prompted David Moyes to give a start against the Cherries.
Moyes was really pleased with his performance, but at the same time, he made it very clear what he really wants from the Algerian.
“Let’s be fair and honest, Said has not shown us enough of what he can do, but tonight he did, and I’m really pleased,” said Moyes to the club’s official website.
“Last year he got six or seven goals and six or seven assists, but his game has to be more consistent. I keep telling him, and I’m happy to say it here: he needs to have more consistency.”
“But he’s a dribbler. He can make things happen. He commits people, which is something we don’t have, and I really like it, but what I want from is a good cross, I want a good pass or good finish. He has to hit the target more often because he creates himself opportunities, but I thought tonight he played well.”
This is brutal honesty from the Hammers’ boss. He appreciates the quality of Benrahma, but there’s also a part of him that is hugely frustrating.
He has got pace and fantastic dribbling abilities. Benrahma has an eye for goals and he is capable of creating chances for his teammates as well.
West Ham paid around £30 million in a package deal to sign the Algerian in 2021-22, after he impressed on loan. He has managed 15 goals in 97 games so far for the club.
But, he lacks consistency. You won’t find him playing at a top level for a series of games. When that happens, it becomes difficult for the manager to put absolute trust in the player.
Under Moyes, the Hammers have made tremendous progress in the last few years. They have made a stuttering start to the season, but are slowly gathering momentum, and could come in contention for the top four, if they can maintain a string of wins.
Moyes probably will look to add more quality in the attacking midfield areas in the next few transfer windows, and Benrahma’s position could come under real threat.
The quality is there. Only the application is missing. It’s up to Benrahma now to rise up to the challenge and prove to his manager that he can be a real asset for the side.