West Ham United: The David Moyes difference after just 2 matches

Jumping to early conclusions is always dangerous as a West Ham fan. However, what David Moyes has done in East London has been nothing short of a revelation from where the Hammers were.

The appointment or reappointment of David Moyes to West Ham seemed risky and honestly, a step backward. The Hammers board has always spoken about “next level” and Moyesy seemed like a hire that was anyway but that direction.

Fast forward 2 clean sheets later, 3 huge points in the EPL table, and a 3rd round win in the FA Cup and the storyline changes, quickly, but for the right reasons. What seemed to be second fiddle 18 months ago is now leading the change at West Ham and it shouldn’t surprise anyone.

But what truly is the David Moyes difference and what set him apart from Manuel Pellegrini? For starters, Moyes has a personality about him that is perfectly set for a bunch of rich, sometimes “prima donnas.” He doesn’t care what he says as long as it gets the lads to play the right way.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 01: David Moyes, Manager of West Ham United acknowledges the fans after the Premier League match between West Ham United and AFC Bournemouth at London Stadium on January 01, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) /

Club legend and current captain, Mark Noble, had words for his teammates about the new manager when he was appointed saying:

"“For those in the squad who don’t know David, I have told them that what you get from him is honesty, he tells it how it is. As a player, that’s all you want. He tells you what you do well, but also how you can improve. He is direct, but never personal. He’s the best I’ve experienced at telling you exactly how it is, but not belittling you.”"

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Case in point, Moyes had something to say to Felipe Anderson about being Brazilian and doing what Brazilians do. How has Anderson responded in two matches? His first goal of the season and growing in confidence playing in a new role.

It’s really not known if Pellegrini had a directness about him and it clearly was part of his failure in East London. Moyes has also made an easy switch in playing formations and styles of play that favor the Hammers against the opponent and hasn’t stuck to just one type of play.

Playing a 4-4-1-1 or 4-4-2 (however you want to view it) was perfect in the match against Bournemouth as the Hammers made quick and easy attacking work against the Cherries. In his next match in charge, he moved to a 3 at the back scheme that although it took time, worked well.

Next. Whatever Lanzini is lacking is hurting him and West Ham. dark

I’m not jumping to conclusions just yet but in just a few times out for the newly acquainted Gaffer and he has done just was needed for the Irons. Next up, West Ham travels to Sheffield United to take on the up starting Blades.