‘talkSPORT pundit compares West Ham ace to Saka after what he’s seen
West Ham United captain Jarrod Bowen has earned high praise from former footballer and pundit Tony Cascarino, who described him as a “terrific” player. Cascarino even went as far as to compare Bowen’s tenacity and style to that of Arsenal star Bukayo Saka. While admitting Bowen isn’t quite at Saka’s level, Cascarino emphasized the significant role the forward has played for West Ham this season.
The comparison came in the wake of a bruising 5-2 home defeat to Arsenal on 30 November, a result that left the Hammers languishing in 14th place in the Premier League table. Speaking on talkSPORT (1 December, 6:14 am), Cascarino said:
“I mean they’ve [West Ham] got some really good things. I think [Jarrod] Bowen is a terrific player, he’s very much like [Bukayo] Saka, tenacious, not as good but still a very, very good player. I think [Crysencio] Summerville came in and improved, I think there’s a lot in there with him.”
Bowen Shines Amid West Ham’s Struggles
Despite the team’s mixed fortunes, Bowen has been a rare bright spot in an otherwise turbulent campaign. The former Hull City man has consistently delivered standout performances, solidifying his reputation as one of West Ham’s most reliable players. While his recent form might have dipped slightly, Bowen’s contributions remain critical to the team’s ability to compete.
West Ham’s season so far has been marked by inconsistency. While there have been flashes of brilliance, such as victories over Newcastle United and Manchester United, these moments have been too sporadic to make a significant impact. The heavy defeat to Arsenal further exposed the team’s defensive vulnerabilities and lack of cohesion, raising questions about manager Julen Lopetegui’s leadership and tactical approach.
Lopetegui Under Pressure
The spotlight is firmly on Lopetegui, with growing frustration among fans and pundits alike. Despite some memorable wins, the Hammers have struggled to maintain momentum, and performances like the one against Arsenal have only added to the scrutiny. Club co-chairman David Sullivan has so far stood by Lopetegui, but patience may be wearing thin as the team continues to falter.
Bowen’s Importance Cannot Be Overstated
Bowen’s influence on the pitch underscores his value to the squad. Without his goals, creativity, and relentless work ethic, West Ham’s situation could be even more dire. His leadership, especially in tough moments, has been instrumental in keeping the team afloat. While comparisons to Saka may highlight the gap between West Ham and the league’s elite teams, they also reflect the high regard in which Bowen is held.
What’s Next for West Ham?
With fixtures piling up and the January transfer window looming, West Ham faces a critical juncture. Strengthening the squad, particularly in defense, will be essential if they are to climb the table and avoid being dragged into a relegation battle. For Lopetegui, the task is clear: stabilize the team, tighten up defensively, and ensure that key players like Bowen continue to perform at their peak.
One thing is certain – heavy defeats like the one against Arsenal cannot become the norm. If West Ham are to turn their season around, they will need to rediscover consistency and resilience, starting with their next game. For now, the Hammers can take solace in the fact that they have a player of Bowen’s caliber leading the charge, even in these challenging times.
