OPINION
All season long left back has been a problem position for West Ham United manager Manuel Pellegrini, and just when he thought he’d solve the issue Arthur Masuaku produces the performance he did against Manchester United on Saturday.
The DR Congo international was sensational as he sent a huge message to the Hammers boss with the perfect display of what a wing back should be. Pellegrini’s team may have lost 2-1, but it wasn’t from a lack of trying on the 25-year-old’s part.
This was a genuine masterclass from arguably the most maligned member of this West Ham squad. He gave the United players fits and didn’t let much get past him from a defensive point of view either.
Aaron Cresswell has been first choice at the position for months now, but Masuaku’s display leaves Pellegrini with a big headache. Does he revert back to the Englishman, or ride the hot hand with a player who has been a liability in the past?
One good display doesn’t make up for plenty of poor ones, but nor should Pellegrini ignore what the player did on Saturday. He staked a claim for a first team spot and, in the immediate future at least, you’d think Pellegrini would have to respect that.
To be fair, Cresswell, for all the solidity he provides, has not blown anyone away with his play over the last few months. He’s been fine, but he’s certainly not been anything special.
Masuaku, perhaps for 90 minutes only on Saturday, was special, and he leaves his manager with a big decision to make as a result.
