Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Tue 24 February 2026 12:13, UK

West Ham cannot afford to waste their chances throughout the rest of the season, and against Liverpool, they may find those opportunities few and far between.

Relegation is staring the Hammers directly in the face, with the E20 outfit still two points adrift from 17th place in the Premier League.

The Irons should have come away from their most recent fixture against Bournemouth with all three points, but their lack of clinical edge has cost them dearly.

That level of wastefulness has since emerged, and the figures do not make for kind viewing.

With this in mind, Nuno Espirito Santo could now have a decision to make regarding Jarrod Bowen against Liverpool.

• Read more: Find out everything you need to know about Jarrod Bowen’s contract situation

West Ham hit an unwanted record against Bournemouth

West Ham pummelled Bournemouth with plenty of shots, but the East London side had absolutely no luck at putting the ball into the back of the net.

The Cherries goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic ultimately proved to be the difference maker at London Stadium, as Nuno’s side were incredibly wasteful.

According to the Premier League, that level of wastefulness is a record high across this season. West Ham’s 2.82 xG was the highest xG any team has managed in one game in 2025/26 without scoring a goal.

Additionally, the Irons’ 20 shots were the most they have produced in a single match this campaign.

Now, with Liverpool on the horizon, Nuno cannot afford to repeat history and continually allow his side to not take their chances.

At Anfield, West Ham will be unlikely to have the luxury of plenty of shots, and Bowen could hold the key to securing a result.

• Read more: The relegation fight could go down to the wire, so make sure to familiarise yourself with all of West Ham’s most crucial games

Why Jarrod Bowen should play up front for West Ham against Liverpool

There is no doubt that Bowen’s best position for West Ham is out on the right wing, but in this game, his talents may be better used down the middle.

Liverpool currently rank third for xG conceded across the Premier League, showcasing they can limit opposition’s effectiveness at creating quality chances.

With the Hammers expected to have few chances, they need those opportunities they do get to fall to one of their better finishers.

According to Sofascore, Bowen is that player, with him outperforming his xG by 2.05.

When playing down the middle, Bowen also tends to contribute more for the Hammers, with a hit rate of a goal or assist in 64 per cent of his appearances.

That is in comparison to the 49 per cent he has as a right-winger.

With Bowen down the middle, Adama Traore could be used out wide, and the blistering pace of the Spaniard would cause Liverpool problems of his own.

For more expert analysis on West Ham United, check out Football Insider for the latest updates