Although many fans will look to the performances of Dimitri Payet and Diafra Sakho as worthy Man of the Match displays, another player who was equally as impressive was midfielder Cheikou Kouyate.
When the Senegalese midfielder plays, his relentless energy and driving runs are one of his stand-out features and he has proven in recent weeks that he is a vital component in West Ham’s midfield.
At times against Norwich, the Hammers’ midfield did look vulnerable as there does not seem to be a midfielder that properly sits in front of the back four throughout the game. However, when Obiang came on to add numbers in the midfield, the Hammers performed better in the middle in a defensive sense.
When Kouayte first arrived at West Ham, many thought that he was being brought in as a defensive midfielder. However, throughout his time in the Premier League, he has played as a box to box midfielder who never stops running. Against Norwich, his power was too much for the Canaries to handle at times and it always looks like he is giving 100% up until the very end.
His effort and energy was rewarded in the best possible fashion as Kouyate struck a 93rd minute equaliser to rescue a point at home for the Hammers. His has now scored the same amount of goals as Payet and Sakho and no other Premier League midfielder has scored more than three goals this season. In 2014/15, Kouayte showed glimpses of his attacking instincts but it now looks as if Bilic is encouraging the midfielder to get forward more often this season.
Kouyate performed well for the Hammers, winning the most tackles and aerial duels out of the entire West Ham team. He also created two chances, showing his excellent ability as a box to box midfielder.
If the Hammers can find the right defensive balance in the midfield at home, Kouayte’s efforts will be recognised more as he really does work his socks off.
Image courtesy of fourfourtwo stats zone
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