West Ham's Players Graded after another loss; this to Wolves 0-1

Another match, more line up changes to the side made by the Manager, but the same result again as the Hammers fall at home to Wolves 0-1.

There is not much to be positive about after this one. A game that I felt was must-win for West Ham was lost in injury time and left the team and supporters gutted. The Irons now head into the international break bottom of the table and the only club in the top four flights of English football to not have a single point to start the season.

Something certainly has to change for Manuel Pellegrini moving forward as his team cannot seem to get anything going for any sustained period of time. He has two weeks to figure things out for West Ham and he must take advantage of the International Break.

Grades (/10):

Fabianski – 6: An argument can be made that he has been the best player in three of the four matches. Made another world-class save today to keep it 0-0 late in the 2^nd half. No chance on the goal.

Cresswell – 5: Apparently Arthur Masuaku suffered a late knock and that inserted Aaron Creswell into the starting XI for the first time. Looked the part as WHU’s “attack” was mostly down the left side with him linking up with Anderson. If Pellegrini insists on some form of a 4-X-X formation, I think Cresswell belongs at LB.

Diop-6: Played with confidence today. Made several good tackles and challenges. Good on the ball moving it up the pitch to the midfield.

Balbuena –5: Another solid performance from The General today. This partnership with Diop looks to be one the club can build on as they have to start solidifying some places in the line-up. It all has to start at the back so why not keep these two working together.

Fredericks– 5: A bit of adventure at times today. He’s the right sided version of Masuaku—looks dangerous going forward attacking with pace, but tracking back and defending can be a scary sight. Still like him better than Zabaleta just because he can cover more ground. And he needs to.

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Sanchez– 4. Up until his terrible, critical mistake that led directly to the Wolves winning goal I thought he was good. Just what is needed in midfield. Moving the ball cleanly, making tackles and a steadying presence in front of the back four. And then THAT happened and that knocked down his grade.

Wilshere (64’)-5. Meh. Just ok carrying the ball through midfield. Doesn’t appear to be able to take over the game right now. Is that because of fitness, the position he is being asked to play or the formation in which he is playing in is something the Manager has to get sorted.

Snodgrass (45′) – 6: Didn’t understand this substitution. Most of the season it can be argued Snodgrass has been among West Ham’s best. Today he seemed up for it again. He is one of the few that seems to have a run in him. And when he gets the ball at his feet or on set pieces he can actually do something with it. Unlike his counterpart on the other side.

Antonio (75’) – 4: I am sorry to say I am growing tired of this act. On the one hand, Antonio goes full speed at all times and in a side that currently lacks intensity, intention, and energy that effort is needed. However, his lack of any technical skill with the ball at his feet negates all the running along the flank. Had to switch sides because Wolves were attacking him relentlessly in the first half.

Anderson-6: Seems to enjoy the #10 role behind Arnautovic. Had the Hammers best chance of the game early in the first half. Confidence appears to be growing. But he still has to put in a shift for the full 90. Too many times he is walking or jogging and not running. That attitude spreads to others.

Arnautovic -6: Just can’t get the finish the club so desperately needs. Had the winning goal on his foot after a nifty cut back move late in the second half that nailed Patricio in the face. And that lack of finish was the nail in the Irons coffin today

Next. Match Review: West Ham 0 – 1 Wolves; Running out of Excuses. dark

Subs Used:

Yarmalenko(45’) – 4: Doesn’t appear to be in shape. Another player jogging and walking around the pitch. I like his technical ability but needs to watch Snodgrass’ effort more before he earns a regular spot. This was his longest outing in a league game and he didn’t have anything to show for it, again.

Obiang (64’) – 4: Came on for Wilshire and looked to want to play the same role as Sanchez. Had one strike from long range, and a couple of decent tackles. At some point, you figure he gets a longer look in Midfield still looking for answers.

Chicharito(75’) – 4: A great one-two with his strike partner Arnie in the second half was another chance that the Irons could not finish. Not sure this is a player that has ever fit any system West Ham have employed since he’s been with the club.

West Ham Players Graded After Disastrous Loss to Wolves 0-1

By Jeff Catlin | Sep 1, 2018

Another match, more line up changes to the side made by the Manager, but the same result again as the Hammers fall at home to Wolves 0-1.

More from Green Street Hammers - West Ham