View: David Moyes must resolve defensive issue for West Ham
West Ham boss David Moyes has a big problem to solve at right-back ahead of the Hammers Premier League clash with Newcastle on Saturday (February 19).
Vladimir Coufal didn’t cover himself in glory last time out against Leicester City and that saw him subbed off in the second half for Ryan Fredericks.
While that might have given the team a short burst of energy in the latter stages of the weekend’s 2-2 draw, it might not work so well against the Toon.
Newcastle’s biggest threat is undoubtedly winger Allan Saint-Maximin who has been in great form in recent weeks.
If Coufal plays how he did against the Foxes, he would suffer a torrid 90 minutes and would probably have to be whipped off much earlier than he was at the King Power stadium.
It does seem a little harsh on the Hammers ace who hasn’t quite rediscovered his form since coming back from injury.
With that being said, Fredericks is notoriously renowned for his ability to attack but lack of defensive quality, and against an explosive forward like Saint-Maximin that is a recipe for disaster.
He does have the speed advantage over Coufal but the latter is far greater in defence. Moyes will be keeping a close eye on the duo in training to help him in his decision.
Neither?
Could Ben Johnson be within a shout for a start against Newcastle? He should be.
The Hammers youngster has flourished into a great player this season and has proved his fantastic ability on many occasions.
Ironically, he looks to be the perfect combination of his more senior teammates, Coufal and Fredericks. He possesses great attacking and defensive qualities, giving him the potential to become a complete, all-round defender.
He impresses every single time he puts on the claret & blue shirt and has recently spoken of wanting to repay Moyes for the opportunity the Scot has given him this season.
If his performances haven’t already thanked the manager already, I would love to see him try harder – the young lad leaves absolutely everything out on the pitch when he plays with his eagerness to impress and play more.
It would be a very tough test against such a tricky attacker that even the best have struggled to deal with this season but it would be a good way to find out exactly where he is at in his development.
In other Hammers news, Rio Ferdinand thinks West Ham could clinch Champions League football.