The experienced West Ham midfielder has struggled this season.
There is little doubt about Mark Noble’s commitment to West Ham United, with the midfielder having amassed 417 senior appearances since graduating from the club’s academy.
Noble, the West Ham captain, has spent his entire career to date at West Ham, with his only spells away from the club being loan stints at Ipswich Town and Hull City.
A player with whom the club’s supporters can identify, the 30-year-old has remained with West Ham throughout various relegations and promotions and his loyalty should be commended.
However, it shouldn’t be seen as a factor if David Moyes is considering dropping Noble from the starting line-up.
West Ham’s struggles at present are clear for all to see, with the club currently in 18th place in the Premier League and a battle to avoid relegation looking increasingly likely.
Many of Noble’s performances this season have been underwhelming, with his passing lacking its usual sharpness, and it is clear that West Ham’s midfield is in need of rejuvenation.
Noble is certainly a player who is worth retaining and he is an important figure in the dressing room but at present he doesn’t warrant a place in the starting line-up.
West Ham’s main option to replace Noble isn’t especially appealing, with Edimilson Fernandes having not made much of an impact for the club so far.
However, there are alternative choices for Moyes. He could, for instance, play Pedro Obiang deeper, with Manuel Lanzini and youngster Domingos Quina operating ahead of him.
There is also a possibility that West Ham could bring in a new midfielder in January, which would hopefully make them more effective as a unit.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
