Benrahma will be key to unlocking tight defences for West Ham

West Ham’s dramatic 1-0 win over Fulham was a sign of how resolute this team has become but for large periods of the match, there was nobody who could open up their defence.

That was until the introduction of Said Benrahma in the 72nd minute who, while initially struggling to get into the game, ultimately proved to be the man to unlock a packed Fulham back-line, as his square ball to Tomas Soucek was hopefully his first of many goal contributions for West Ham.

It may have looked like a relatively simple pass, but while many players in that same situation would have opted for a shot and, ultimately, the headlines, the Algerian remained calm and composed in what was a high-pressure situation.

Benrahma will get goals, but his latest set-up combined with his 24 assists over the previous two seasons for Brentford, show that he is first and foremost a team player who will more times than not, make the correct decision in an attacking scenario.

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I emphasize attacking scenario because his desperate attempted tackle at the other end of the pitch almost cost the Hammers the three points, which would have glossed over his vital contribution at the other end had Ademola Lookman not decided to suddenly believe he was prime Paolo Di Canio.

With more, on paper, winnable fixtures approaching, where teams may try to frustrate West Ham in the same manner in which Fulham did, Benrahma could be key to overcoming those problems with his dribbling ability and creative nous a major asset for David Moyes to have in his squad.

Assuming the Scot will be sticking with his so-far successful five-at-the-back formation, this would likely mean Pablo Fornals being demoted to the bench, which may seem a tad harsh given his impressive start to the campaign.

The team is more important than any individual, however, and if Benrahma is likely to offer more than the Spaniard in a particular game, then Moyes should not hesitate in making the call which he believes will benefit the club as a whole.

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This notion, of course, is the same for any individual, and while the manager’s loyalty may be admirable, a certain ruthlessness would not go amiss either.