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Darren Bent shares what he noticed about West Ham star Said Benrahma

Will Butcher

Thu 20 May 2021 7:50, UK

Darren Bent has told Sky Sports News’ coverage of Wednesday night’s Premier League matches that West Ham United star Said Benrahma “did not look happy” when he was substituted by David Moyes against West Brom.

Benrahma, 25, was handed a start after opening his Premier League account during the previous match – which resulted in a 1-1 draw against Brighton. The Algerian looked bright, laying on an assist for Tomas Soucek to score.

Soucek’s goal came after he had netted an own goal. Benrahma looked a spark throughout, but Moyes chose to bring him off and bring on Jarrod Bowen on 72 minutes – sparking mass criticism from West Ham fans on social media.

Following Benrahma’s exit, West Ham went on to win – goals coming through Angelo Ogbonna after a brilliant cross from Aaron Cresswell and then a late Michail Antonio effort. Bent noticed Benrahma’s reaction to being subbed.

“I was a bit surprised that they took Benrahma off, he created the goal and he looked a threat. He didn’t look happy when he went off,” Bent told Sky Sports News, during coverage on Wednesday night (9.45PM).

TBR’s view – Benrahma right to feel aggrieved

But it is probably a reaction that Moyes will like to see. He will want his players to feel frustrated when they are taken off, and want to play more minutes than their teammates. However, it was probably the wrong decision by Moyes.

Pablo Fornals and even Jesse Lingard had been outshone by Benrahma – but Moyes chose to keep both on instead of Benrahma. Bowen did eventually get the assist for Antonio’s goal, but Benrahma is probably right to feel aggrieved.