Gabby Agbonlahor speaks on Bowen's performance against Aston Villa

A few days ago, West Ham officially announced star forward Jarrod Bowen as the new Hammers captain ahead of the upcoming season. The decision to give the captain's armband to Bowen was great as the English forward has been a great signing for West Ham and has expressed his dream to stay at West Ham and become a club legend. 

Playing for West Ham, Bowen has made 203 appearances scoring 60 goals and providing 39 assists. In the 2022/23 season, Bowen scored the match winning goal against Fiorentina in the UEFA Conference League final that helped West Ham win their first trophy in 43 years. Thus, Bowen is one of the key players for West Ham.

Gabby Agbonlahor speaks on Bowen's performance against Aston Villa

This season, West Ham started their Premier League campaign with a 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa. In this match, Jarrod Bowen captained the Hammers and new manager Julen Lopetegui made his West Ham debut. However, Bowen didn't had a great game and was substituted in the second half with the score level at 1-1. 

Now, talksport analyst Gabby Agbonlahor spoke on Bowen's performance in the first match, saying,

"I felt that Bowen looked like he was still on holiday."

- Gabby Agbonlahor

While this was a lacklustre display from Jarrod Bowen, the English forward didn't had a full preseason with the team. After the previous season concluded with a 3-1 defeat against Manchester City, Bowen represented England in the UEFA Euro 2024. While Bowen didn't played much in the Euro 2024, England reached the final and thus, Bowen was with the England team when West Ham started their preseason. 

Also, the Hammers have made eight new signings in this summer transfer window. After joining the preseason, Bowen only played in one game against Celta Vigo and thus needs some time to adapt to manager Julen Lopetegui's new style of football.