'He Deserves It' - Exclusive: Pundit reacts to West Ham contract reveal via Athletic
West Ham winger Jarrod Bowen is fully deserving of a pay rise, according to Gabriel Agbonlahor.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Aston Villa and England striker heaped praise on the 24-year-old's appearances for the Hammers and claimed he's “going to be a star”.
The Athletic's David Ornstein reported on Monday the former Hull City ace has received a “significant” pay rise after reaching 30 appearances for his new club on New Year's Day.
Bowen moved to the London Stadium from Hull at the end of last January for an initial £18million fee and has established himself as one of the first names on the teamsheet.
After two substitute appearances when he first arrived, he has started every Premier League game for the Irons since.
Asked by Football Insider whether Bowen's performances warranted a pay rise, Agbonlahor said: “I really like him.
“I like the way he runs at people. He can dribble with the ball, he can cut inside off that right-hand side. For me, he’s a quality player.
“The pay rise he’s got he deserves because he’s been outstanding this season.
“I’m sure now he just wants to get a few more goals and assists now to back up these great performances because he’s definitely going to be a star.
“It’s a great bit of business for West Ham.”
Bowen played his 31st game for the Hammers on Monday night when he provided the assist for Craig Dawson's winner in their FA Cup third-round tie with Stockport County.
He came off the bench after the 68th minute at Edgeley Park before putting in the cross that led to the only goal of the game.