West Ham star Michail Antonio opens up on David Moyes’ ‘defensive’ tactics

West Ham striker Michail Antonio has opened up on David Moyes’ tactics amid pressure building on the manager.

The Hammers have begun this season poorly and as we enter the World Cup break Moyes’ team are just one point above the relegation zone.

Fans are growing frustrated at the perceived ‘negative’ setup from the boss and his failure to get the best out of his summer signings.

West Ham star Michail Antonio has spoken about David Moyes’ game plan and footballing philosophy.

The likes of Lucas Paqueta and Gianluca Scamacca could benefit from a change in tactics, and Moyes inability to make tweaks to his system this year is angering many supporters.

Antonio is someone who has benefited greatly from Moyes’ defensive first tactics and his pace and power on the break. And he has now spoken about the mindset of the manager.

West Ham No.9 told the Footballer’s Football Podcast back in September: “That’s one thing with our gaffer, literally, he loses his mind [over keeping it tight].

“When we concede one he’s like ‘you do not concede two within ten minutes’.

“You’ve got to make sure you work from your shape and then you go for it. The only time you can actually really go for it [under Moyes]?

“Last ten of a match you can probably go for it and try and get something if it’s 1-0. But before that, if it’s one goal, you can get that one goal from anything, it could be like a corner, a throw-in, they could score an own goal, anything can happen when it’s 1-0.

“Just try not to concede two. Concede two, do not make it three… just try and shut up shop so the game doesn’t run away.”

Antonio’s remarks were said in a positive light after Moyes has guided West Ham to back-to-back European finishes and a Europa League semi-final, but of course those who are now in favour of sacking Moyes could use these comments in their favour.

Now the Hammers have a better squad with more talent than ever before, critics will suggest Moyes needs to flip his attitude and make attack his priority, not defending.

It’s players like his big money signings of Paqueta and Scamacca who could find form if the manager takes the handbrake off.

West Ham have been able to create a decent number when they ‘go for it’ late in the game. Maybe starting matches like this could be what is needed after the World Cup.