Paul Merson has admitted to Sky Sports that he was surprised that West Ham United didn’t substitute Said Benrahama earlier against Arsenal.
West Ham saw a 3-0 advantage slip against Arsenal, but even with the Gunners on the front foot, Benrahma stayed on for much of the contest.
The Algerian’s strengths lie in his attacking qualities rather than his defensive skills.
And as West Ham were being pushed back, Benrahma didn’t offer his full-back the best protection.
David Moyes did try and change things in the 79th minute, when he brought on Ryan Fredericks.
But by that time it was too little too late, as Arsenal scored an equaliser just minutes later.
West Ham had the chance to seal the game just moments before that, when Benrahma created a golden chance for Michail Antonio.
But the Hammers striker could only hit the post from close range.
And Merson was shocked that Moyes kept such an attacking team on the pitch for so long.
“I was surprised Benrahma stayed on but this is the reason he stayed on [to set up the chance for Antonio],” he said.
“He gets the ball and bursts into the box, he’s got that little bit of x-factor. It’s a great ball and it’s studs away.”
In the end West Ham’s draw with Arsenal leaves them two points outside the top four places.
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