Kouyate was deployed in an unfamiliar role by West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic and couldn’t prevent a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea.
West Ham United’s Cheikhou Kouyate
With Michail Antonio suspended, West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic chose to deploy Cheikhou Kouyate as this week’s auxiliary right-back against Chelsea.
It proved a failed experiment, however, with the Blues strolling to a 2-1 win at the London Stadium, following goals from Eden Hazard and Diego Costa before Manuel Lanzini’s stoppage-time consolation.
Those on Twitter were left ruing the Hammers’ boss’ decision, with Mark Noble struggling in Kouyate’s usual central midfield role.
Recognised right-back Sam Byram began Monday’s encounter on the bench, but was eventually brought on 26 minutes from time after Winston Reid was forced off.
West Ham United’s Mark Noble (right)
And West Ham fans are keen to see Byram replace Noble at Bournemouth on Saturday, accommodating Kouyate’s return to his preferred role alongside Pedro Obiang.
Here’s what they’ve been saying:
They may have to remain patient, however, with Kouyate in line for a centre-back spot should Reid fail to return at Dean Court.
What did you make of Kouyate/Nobe/Byram’s performance? How should West Ham start against Bournemouth?
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