David Moyes has admitted to feeling a growing temptation to include Mohammed Kudus in West Ham United's starting XI for their Premier League matches. The former Manchester United manager made this statement following their 4-1 defeat against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday.
West Ham suffered their first major setback of the season with goals from Ollie Watkins, Leon Bailey, and a double from Douglas Luiz securing Villa's 11th consecutive home league win. While West Ham briefly threatened a second-half comeback after Jarrod Bowen's deflected strike reduced the deficit to 2-1, they struggled to trouble Emiliano Martinez in the Villa goal.
Mohammed Kudus was once again left on the bench by David Moyes for the game. The Ghanaian has impressed in cup competitions and cameos, scoring an equalizer off the bench in a recent 2-2 draw with Newcastle.
“I’m tempted to start Kudus every game,” Moyes said. “But I have to be fair and say that the team’s played quite well. Obviously, we’ve got a balance that we’re trying to find and get that right as well. Sometimes our balance has been very good and got us some good results. Now and again, sometimes it can cause you problems as well," he added.
Despite not featuring in the Premier League, Kudus has been impressive in the Europa League, scoring two goals. The 23-year-old has made nine appearances in all competitions for West Ham.
West Ham United will be hosted by Olympiacos in the Europa League on Thursday before welcoming Everton in the Premier League at the London Olympic Stadium.
