West Ham United: David Moyes sweating over Jarrod Bowen as ‘major worry’ emerges
David Moyes will be praying that Jarrod Bowen will be fit as West Ham face Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League on Thursday (11 April).
Having deputised as a striker for much of the current campaign, filling in for Michail Antonio, the England international’s adaptability is key for the Hammers team.
West Ham will be hoping to overcome Leverkusen to reach the semi-final of the Europa League, but many are predicting that the German side will advance, having not lost a single match this season.
If Moyes’ side are to pull off a famous victory against Xabi Alonso’s team, Bowen will need to be available to lead the attack with Lucas Paqueta and Mohammed Kudus in support.
However, fans will need to wait for an update on their star forward, who has notched 19 goals and eight assists in all competitions, as he left the field injured during the 2-1 win over Wolves on Saturday 6 April.
Will Jarrod Bowen be available for West Ham United v Bayer Leverkusen?
Speaking live via Sky Sports on Saturday (6 April, 4:08pm), Neil Lennon said: “Bowen’s lying down on the ground – he clashed with Gomes. It looked pretty innocuous but I think he’s hurt his rib. He’s been down for two or three minutes.
“Obviously, with Bayer Leverkusen on the horizon, this is going to be a major worry for West Ham. He’s looking gingerly at the minute. We’ll have to wait and see if Bowen can continue – it’s not looking good.”
Bowen would be a massive miss if he were to be injured for the clash against Leverkusen. Though he only lasted 54 minutes on the pitch, his stats speak for themselves.
He maintained an 83 per cent pass accuracy, completed 100 per cent of his long balls, won 100 per cent of his tackles (2/2), and was involved in five ground duels. [FotMob]
In Europe’s top five leagues, Bowen ranks in the top 98 percentile for non-penalty goals, which should already strike fear into the Leverkusen defenders. [FBref]
He also ranks in the 83 percentile for interceptions, as well as the top 88 percentile for aerials won, which makes him the perfect outlet for West Ham’s counterattacking style of play.
Even with Lucas Paqueta, Mohammed Kudus and Michail Antonio available, Moyes would much rather be able to start Bowen in attack on Thursday.
In other West Ham news, Phil Hay has reacted to footage of Kalvin Phillips he has seen amid talk of a move to Leeds United.
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