West Ham United suffered a shocking 4-1 loss to Tottenham Hotspur today to continue an abysmal start to the season under new manager Julen Lopetegui.
Mohammed Kudus gave West Ham an early lead, leaving Guglielmo Vicario with no chance when he tucked home a cross from Jarrod Bowen. It was his second goal in as many games.
However, West Ham’s defence crumbled and was badly overrun in a second-half blitz, leaving them frustrated after what looked like a promising afternoon.
Things went from bad to worse for the Irons when Kudus lost his head after a challenge from Micky Van de Ven.
The Ghanaian kicked the Tottenham defender while he was down and received his marching orders for that moment of madness.
His actions will likely earn him a deserved lengthy suspension in retrospect, compounding a frustrating season for the former Ajax star.
Kudus must take responsibility for his actions. His behaviour was impulsive and reflected a sulky attitude that has been apparent throughout the season.
He has reportedly fallen out with Lopetegui, suggesting a growing rift between the player and manager.
Kudus’ immaturity only exacerbates the tense situation in a team already struggling for cohesion and identity.
The Ghanaian international returned from international duty frustrated after the team failed to qualify for the African Cup of Nations.
Local Ghanaian media tore into him for his anonymous performance against Sudan.
The frustrating capitulation against Spurs must have also played on his mind. However, what happened on the pitch today was inexcusable.
Kudus’ red card is a microcosm of West Ham’s larger problems. The team lacks consistency, defensive solidity and a clear identity.
They must address these issues quickly and decisively to turn their fortunes around. The Hammers’ season is hanging by a thread, and they cannot afford more setbacks.
The Hammers host Manchester United at the London Stadium next Sunday. A loss to the Red Devils could leave Lopetegui’s future in limbo.
