Not many people expected West Ham to do much against City. But Moyes could have done a lot more.
When the starting lineup was announced, there were many people who groaned in disappointment. Whilst Lanzini was in, there were changes that made it clear West Ham were not chasing anything. Gone was Masuaku, our best left sided attacking asset, in was Evra. Cresswell was pushed into wing back, and Kouyate remained in the midfield at the expense of Mario.
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Whilst I can maybe forgive the starting lineup, it’s the inaction during the match I can’t. Time and time again we have seen a situation unfolding where changes need to be made. Yet David Moyes thinks waiting until 20 minutes to go is the best option. Against Stoke it cost us the chance to push for three points. Against City it cost us the chance to fight at all. Waiting until we’re 4-1 down benefits no-one.
Whilst Moyes has, hopefully kept us up, the idea of this management style for the next couple of years is enough to keep Hammers fans up in a cold sweat each night. He gets people running and pushing for the entire game, but he has no forward planning, or desire to change. That is what could still lead this side to relegation.
Again, I didn’t expect anything out of this City game. They are an incredible side and they have not dropped many points at all this season. However I do expect my manager to try something. When you’re 2-1 or 3-1 down against the Champions why keep things the same? We didn’t look good, it’s not like we were knocking at the door.
Next: Moyes' tactical inflexibility hurting West Ham
In the summer I want a manager who can really see what’s happening and adapt. Not someone who sticks and hopes things will improve. The game is adapting, getting faster and faster each season. But I don’t think Moyes is keeping up with it all. I certainly wouldn’t be confident in him taking charge for the next season.