West Ham United: David Moyes must trust George Earthy with Premier League debut v Wolves
West Ham have lost just one of their last five matches in all competitions, though David Moyes will still be worried with the inconsistency being shown at the London Stadium.
Though the Hammers are just three points outside the Premier League’s top-six spots, fans have started to lose faith in Moyes, slamming his defensive style of play in recent weeks.
The 1-1 draw against Tottenham showed some much-needed resilience, with Kurt Zouma cancelling out Brennan Johnson’s fifth-minute opener, but some will suggest it only papered over the cracks.
West Ham could have secured four points from their last two matches, but a complete capitulation at St James’ Park against Newcastle United saw them lose 4-3 after being 3-1 up moments after half-time.
Something needs to change, and Moyes could take a huge gamble by handing George Earthy his Premier League debut after being awarded his senior debut during West Ham’s 5-0 win over Freiburg in the Europa League last month.
Could George Earthy start in West Ham United v Wolves?
In general, Moyes is a stubborn manager at the best of times, shown quite clearly by not having walked away from the London Stadium despite many calls for his exit since the turn of the year.
And although the Scot will have been pleasantly surprised with a point against Ange Postecogolou on Tuesday 2 April, many will be disappointed not to have walked away with all three points.
Michail Antonio had an incredible chance to win the game, going one-on-one with Guglielmo Vicario before shooting straight at the Spurs shot-stopper.
For that moment alone, the 34-year-old could be axed from the starting XI for the Hammers’ clash with Wolves on Saturday 8 April, which may force Jarrod Bowen back into the striker position.
Bowen in attack would push Lucas Paqueta further up the pitch, leaving space alongside Edson Alvarez, who will be returning from suspension after missing the Spurs match.
Despite only being 19 years of age, with one senior appearance to his name, the vacant midfield spot would leave Earthy the chance to impress. Whether Moyes decides to take that risk is an entirely different question.
The teenage sensation has been lighting up Premier League 2, boasting 11 goals and eight assists in 23 appearances so far. With just seven games of the league season remaining, fans will be hoping to see an Earthy cameo sooner rather than later.
In other West Ham news, the club “adore” this 13-cap international defender and talks are ongoing for a summer transfer.
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