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West Ham 'can't afford' to be without Jarrod Bowen amid injury claim
West Ham “can’t afford” to be without talisman Jarrod Bowen as their run-in intensifies, according to Alan Hutton.
The former Scotland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, hailed the 25-year-old’s impact – claiming he has gone from “strength to strength” this term.
Bowen opened the scoring in West Ham’s 1-1 Europa League quarter-final first-leg draw against Lyon on Thursday (7 April) – days after handing all three points against Everton on Sunday (3 April).
Thursday saw the forward play the full 90 minutes for the first time since returning from a month out with a fractured foot.
Bowen, who is contracted until 2025, has now notched 14 goals and 11 assists in his most prolific top-flight season to date.
Hutton emphasised the former Hull man’s importance as West Ham’s Champions League hunt comes to a head.
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“One man doesn’t make a team, but Bowen certainly makes a difference,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“He’s proved that on numerous occasions this season. When he’s not playing, a lot is left up to the likes of Antonio and the other guys.
“Bowen has just gone from strength to strength this season, and I think he’s turned into a player that West Ham really can’t afford to be without.
“That’s how much he gives you. It’s running power, goals, movement – everything.
“To have him back when you’re in Europe and still chasing these top spots – it’s such a welcome addition.”
As revealed by Football Insider earlier this year (13 January), Liverpool are keeping close tabs on Bowen.
West Ham sit sixth in the Premier League – three points adrift of fourth-placed Tottenham.
The Irons travel to Lyon next Thursday (14 April) with a semi-final tie against Frankfurt or Barcelona on the line.
In other news, Kieran Maguire shreds Uefa as West Ham fume over ‘£50m-plus’ blow.