Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Mon 18 May 2026 8:10, UK

Aaron Wan-Bissaka failed to cover himself in glory for West Ham United, putting his selection against Newcastle under question.

The DR Congo defender has recently come back into the lineup after four straight matches of starting on the bench.

Against Arsenal, the Irons did frustrate the Gunners, which is perhaps why Nuno Espirito Santo turned to the right back once more.

However, the two games were against completely different opposition, and the selection on this occasion was the wrong one.

Hindsight is 20-20, but ahead of West Ham’s final game of the season, Wan-Bissaka could be considered lucky to start after his involvement in a “dreadful” moment against Newcastle.

What did Micah Richards say about Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s defending?

Eyes will turn to Tottenham’s game against Chelsea, with the Clarets wholeheartedly hoping for a home win at Stamford Bridge.

The loss to Newcastle means that is the only chance the Irons will have of staying in the Premier League next season.

West Ham’s performance against Newcastle lacked determination and grit, and the build-up to the Geordies’ second goal was pivotal in taking the game away from the Irons, with Wan-Bissaka being called out.

It was not only Wan-Bissaka who faced criticism for his involvement in Newcastle’s second goal, but the DR Congo international did not cover himself in glory.

The positioning of the fullback came under fire from Premier League-winning right-back Micah Richards.

Speaking at half-time, Richards stated: “You have Soucek going up, leaving a massive space, and Disasi doesn’t go with his man. Todibo is late and now one-touch, two-touch [from Newcastle]. Wan Bissaka’s positioning there, it is dreadful defending.”

Overall, it was a moment that perfectly encapsulated the Hammers’ performance – all over the place and lacking organisation and composure.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka would be lucky to start against Leeds United

Time will tell if West Ham’s final game of the season will mean anything, with a result for Tottenham against Chelsea ultimately damning the Hammers to the Championship.

Nonetheless, Wan-Bissaka has not earned himself another start under Nuno.

With the Irons needing a win, the African defender offered very little in the attacking department. He failed his only attempted dribble of the game, completed zero accurate crosses and made zero key passes.

Additionally, defensively he also struggled, winning just one out of three ground duels against Newcastle. As Richards stated, “dreadful” is perhaps the best word to use in this case.

Kyle Walker-Peters will certainly be looking on and being confident in his chances in the final matchday. Hopefully, there is still something to play for.