Numerous West Ham players have come under criticism this season. Pedro Obiang is one, having been a top performer before.
West Ham’s win over Chelsea was the result of top work from the entire side. All the players looked like they were fighting for something real, and the workrate was incredible. Antonio, Arnautovic and Masuaku pushed from the front and the midfield trio killed all of the space for Chelsea’s creative stars.
Whilst there was special praise for Masuaku, Arnautovic and Lanzini, I though Obiang was superb. He was much improved from this season’s form, and looked calm and in control. It also showed how much better he is when not paired with Kouyate in the centre of the side.
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Shape, Purpose & Precision
For much of the current season, Obiang has looked out of place. He constantly seems to be isolated on the ball, and out of position off of it. I even put an article up about how he just hasn’t performed this season. But I do think that is a lot to do with the players around him.
A key part of being in central midfield is the work you do with the other players with you. Much like a centreback, whether or not your position is good largely relates to other players. If they are holding a solid position, or the communication is good, it’s easier to be in position often. Things don’t get away from you and life is good. However when the other player is occasionally bombing on forward with little warning or not tracking a runner (Kouyate vs Everton) life suddenly becomes almost impossible.
Against Chelsea, with their many talented attacking players, you would think West Ham could easily be ripped apart down the middle. But Obiang, working defensively with Noble and aided well by Lanzini, cut off all supply centrally. They were perfect on that front, and allowed the backline a real shot at keeping Chelsea at bay.
Next: Should West Ham move for Wilshere?
Obiang is a very good player. But he can’t marshall the midfield on his own. Whilst Noble may not be the most technically proficient or exciting player the Premier League has ever seen his workrate and ability to hold a midfield position could be integral in helping the club escape the drop. Kouyate might just find himself on his way out.