‘Outstanding’: Joe Cole stunned by West Ham talent tonight, been ‘involved in everything’

Thu 3 November 2022 21:46, UK Updated Fri 4 November 2022 11:09, UK

West Ham United cult hero Joe Cole has praised Hammers midfielder Flynn Downes for his efforts so far this season.

The 23-year-old joined West Ham from Swansea City in the summer for a reported £12million.

David Moyes didn’t throw Downes in at the deep end, instead easing him into top-level action slowly.

And the Brentwood-born midfielder has impressed when called upon.

In Thursday’s Europa Conference League trip to FCSB, Moyes made 10 changes from the 1-0 loss at Manchesrer United.

Downes was the only player who kept his spot from the weekend Premier League game.

And the midfielder was superb, covering every blade of grass and winning tackle after tackle against FCSB.

Cole, speaking on , praised Downes at half-time.

“(He’s been) outstanding,” said the former England international.

“He’s been the bright spark for West Ham in the whole campaign.

“The one big positive that will have come out of this for David Moyes is Flynn Downes.

“He’s proven that he’s ready, he’s been like a senior player at (23) years of age.

“He nearly scored, he’s been involved in everything, an outstanding find for West Ham.”

Downes has been an outstanding young signing for the Hammers, pure and simple.

Admittedly, he seemed like a gamble at first – £12million for a player from a mid-table Championship outfit.

But now, that fee seems like a bargain, with Downes showing huge potential.

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