West Ham United defender Ryan Fredericks has been criticised by members of the media today following his performance against Newcastle United in the Premier League.
The Lowdown: Moyes makes ‘odd’ call…
Irons boss David Moyes, rather than picking the in-form Ben Johnson for a spot at right-back, instead opted to start Fredericks against the visitors this afternoon.
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This team selection raised some question marks with critics even questioning the ‘odd’ decision given Johnson’s often brilliant league performances.
What followed was an outing in which Fredericks appeared to struggle as members of the media voiced their criticism of West Ham’s defender.
The Latest: Media criticise Fredericks…
Indeed, after being hooked by Moyes at half time following what some believed to be a ‘shambles’ display, journalists and celebrity West Ham figures alike all agreed this wasn’t the Englishman’s best day.
“Not a surprise to see Fredericks off at the break, on a yellow and struggling to keep Newcastle out down that side.” – Jack Rosser, The Evening Standard (Twitter).
“Bore off Fredericks. What a shambles of a first half he’s had.” – Evan Kenneth Jones, actor and former West Ham presenter (Twitter).
“Ben Johnson replaces Ryan Fredericks. No big surprise.” – Tom Clark, football.london reporter (Twitter).
“WHUFC haven’t been comfortable at any point in this first half and it’s a howler from Rice that allows Willock to equalise from close range. NUFC having great joy down Fredericks’ side and they deserve to be level.” – Toby Cudworth, 90min journalist (Twitter).
The Verdict: Correct
The numbers certainly suggest Fredericks had an off day.
According to SofaScore, the 29-year-old ranked in as one of West Ham’s worst-performing players on the day with a 6.3/10 and only completed 50% of his passes.
He also found success with none of his attempted crosses into the box and cut a largely ineffective figure in both an attacking and defending sense, leaving little wonder members of the media weren’t impressed.
In other news: Journalist: West Ham in strong position to sign ‘amazing’ player who club think is worth ‘£50m’, find out more here.