West Ham news: Pundit issues ‘massive’ Jarrod Bowen claim
West Ham will be “so happy” after confirming Jarrod Bowen’s injury is not “significant”, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed England boss Gareth Southgate will also be “relieved” with the 25-year-old available to take on Switzerland and Ivory Coast if selected later this month.
Bowen limped off in the 53rd minute of West Ham’s 1-0 loss at Liverpool on Saturday (5 March), but the club confirmed on Sunday (6 March) that “no significant damage” had occurred after scans on his right heel.
However, according to The Athletic (7 March), the forward is set to miss the Hammers’ games against Sevilla and Aston Villa this week.
Bowen’s haul of eight goals and 10 assists in the Premier League means he has contributed to 39% of West Ham’s top-flight strikes this term.
Whelan suggested the Irons’ chances of success this term are in the hands of the “brilliant” ex-Hull man.
“It’s massive for them,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He’s been brilliant – this season especially. The improvement he’s shown is just testament to the hard work he’s been putting in.
“It’s not just West Ham who will be relieved, it’s Gareth Southgate too – because he is surely on the verge of an England call-up.
“He’s even stepped up into Michail Antonio’s shoes when needed and played as that striker – and we all know the problems they’ve had in that position.
“He is one of these players now that West Ham can’t afford not to have him on the field. He’s just so clinical and hard-working.
“It’s this final leg of the season now. In order to be successful they really need him to stay fit, so they’ll be so happy with the results of this scan.”
In other news, ex-Premier League referee claims Craig Dawson should be banned as new footage analysed.