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Said Benrahma made his 100th appearance for West Ham in the 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace, and unfortunately the day did not end the way it started, holding off any celebrations he may of had planned to celebrate this milestone. Benrahma grabbed the 1st goal in stunning fashion but Crystal Palace broke West Ham hearts with a last minute winner to take home all the spoils on the day.
The Algeria winger joined on loan from Brentford in October 2020 and was signed for on a multi million pound deal on a permanent basis during the following transfer window. Benrahma arrived with a big reputation but has he been given the opportunities to establish himself?.
Benrahma has lacked consistency during his 1st two seasons at the London Stadium and his wavering form has frustrated Moyes. West Ham’s manager wants to build a side capable of challenging the top six and he is not been happy with Benrahma’s inability to influence games on a more frequent basis. The 27-year-old scored 11 goals in all competitions last season but was not a regular starter due to his decision-making in the final third which has often left much to be desired.
Benrahma is a silky playmaker with the ability to breeze past players with his trickery, obviously a reason as to why West Ham brought him to the club. Brentford assistant coach, Sam Saunders, once claimed that Benrahma “could nutmeg a mermaid” and this illustrates how much talent he has with the ball at his feet.
Is Benny really a Moyes player ?
His start to life in East London was slow as David Moyes rarely trusted him from the start in matches and he was kept out the side by the inspired Jesse Lingard. Last season was meant to be Benrahma’s year and it was until the last few months. He became the most substituted player at West Ham to his frustration, and he was captured showing his displeasure to Moyes after coming off v Newcastle.
This season we could argue that Benrahma has showed us the consistency he has lacked for the last 2 seasons, offering a creative outlet and being involved in goals. Yes still frustrating with his end product but none the less the player is offering us a creative outlet. That goal V Crystal Palace all be it against the run of play really added fire to his belly, he was the only player to offer us a creative outlet. So when Moyes substituted him around the 60 minute mark was it surprising to hear so many West Ham fans booing in the stadium?.
Benrahma is a confidence player and that decision will not of helped him, He’s an exceptional dribbler. His relatively low centre of gravity helps him to elude defenders. He is quick, dynamic and incredibly skilful, which makes him very hard to deal with for the opposing defenders. Benrahma thrives the most when given the creative freedom to express himself.
Lets hope this has not knocked his confidence and he can perform for another 100 games with our club delivering on the consistency we know he can produce.
