Cheikhou Kouyate has revealed he does not know whether his future lies at the London Stadium or elsewhere after expressing his frustration at being played at right-back for the latter part of last season while conducting an interview on Sen360FR. (via Football London)
“We lost our right-hand side and some defenders who could evolve at that level. It was then that the coach asked me to help out.” said fan favourite Kouyate when asked about his role at full-back last season.
“Initially, I was reluctant to complain when he told me it was just for a game. It was just after the African Cup. But after the third match, there was a defender available. Nevertheless, Bilic played me there me again. Not only did I lose my bearings, but I was not good on the field. I was stuck in my evolution. Even the coach realised this. I did not feel good, so I took my responsibilities to tell the coach that I could no longer continue [in that position].”
Those frustrations appeared to then boil over as when questioned with regards to his West Ham future, the Senegal international stated: “I do not know for the moment. I am on holiday and not taking care of certain things. Every player dreams of going as high as possible. There are certain things that are not said publicly.”
Kouyate made 36 appearances for the Hammers last season, spending much of that time out of position following the departure of Dimitri Payet and injury to Michail Antonio.
