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West Ham must unleash King Arthur as their starting left wingback

By Jay Korman

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 27: Arthur Masuaku of West Ham United is challenged by Nelson Semedo of Wolverhampton Wanderers during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers at London Stadium on September 27, 2020 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Andy Rain - Pool/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 27: Arthur Masuaku of West Ham United is challenged by Nelson Semedo of Wolverhampton Wanderers during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers at London Stadium on September 27, 2020 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Andy Rain - Pool/Getty Images) /
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After a long period of struggling for game time, Arthur Masuaku may be key for the Hammers in the 2020-2021 Premier League campaign.

There is no questioning the skill and footballing ability of Arthur Masuaku. West Ham’s left-back has pace, skill, and flair that very few players can bring to the table. However, Arthur has struggled for game time with the Hammers for a while now due to lapses in concentration defensively, along with some very poor giveaways.

In the new system that the Hammers have played over the past two matches, Masuaku lines up as a left wingback type role, where he is able to move further up the pitch and has less defensive responsibility. I think that this change is position has been great for Arthur and is one of the reasons why he has flourished in the new system lately.

With less of an emphasis on having to defend, King Arthur is able to make runs up the pitch and dazzle all Hammers fans across the world with his skill and pace. Although Arthur was able to do this in a back four, it came with consequences as he was unable to defend and get back due to more defensive responsibility. The new system fits him perfectly.

Although Arthur has been criticized by a large part of the fan base for his past performances, I think this is the right time to get behind him as a player. He is in great form, and could really be a key contributor all season if he can keep his confidence up.

It is very clear to me that when the Irons have possession of the ball, Masuaku is one of our more creative and pacy players. He creates a lot of chances and has the chance to take on any defender standing in his way. West Ham need more players like this, and I believe this is only the start of what Masuaku can bring to the table.

Next. Uninspiring defender added to the West Ham list. dark

In terms of future matches, hopefully, David Moyes will stick with the back three formation. Many players struggling in the other system have thrived thus far, and Arthur at his best would be great for the Hammers chances the rest of this season. Let King Arthur keep shining!