West Ham chairman David Sullivan has hailed Dimitri Payet as his marquee signing during his tenure, but just behind him in the order of priorities is hard-working Jarrod Bowen.
Sullivan, as the club’s financier, may be dazzled by Payet’s dazzling skill, but it is not he who makes the selection of the team. That being said, it is essential to view Bowen through the eyes of a manager, and as England prepare for what promises to be an exciting new chapter under Thomas Tuchel from January 1, The question on everyone’s lips is whether Bowen should be firmly in the starting XI.
After signing the winger from Hull City for a cool £22million—a transfer that now looks like a masterstroke—Sullivan has positioned Bowen as an invaluable asset. Yet Lee Carsley, the current England manager, appears to be underestimating his contributions, labeling Bowen’s selection status a “debate” ahead of recent matches.
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Carsley was criticized by angry West Ham supporters, who took to the streets to voice their displeasure over Bowen’s treatment. Cockney fans never hesitate to show their support—or disapproval—of their heroes.
This is not new ground; do you remember the reactions when a Payet wanted to leave? The reaction was swift, with graffiti appearing overnight and security positioned around his effigy at the London Stadium.
Bowen, the son of a farmer, demonstrates determination by pushing wheelbarrows full of dirt to stay in shape during the offseason. His undemanding nature could paradoxically work against him, as he consistently turns out for England without the noise that surrounds some of his Premier League counterparts, who have withdrawn from the final group due to injuries.
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When called, Bowen responded without complaint. He came on as a substitute in the friendly against Ireland—unfazed—and scored a superb goal that showcased his talents.
In terms of performance statistics, Bowen matched players like Cole Palmer, while outperforming others in crucial areas such as shot conversion rates and overall contributions in goals and assists. Representing both wings with versatility, Bowen checks all the boxes of what coaches look for in a player.
It’s astonishing to think he cost a fraction of what Manchester City spent on Jack Grealish, and unlike others, Bowen doesn’t air his grievances through cryptic comments about management decisions. He can often be found defending on the pitch, before leading the charge forward once the threat is neutralized—truly embodying that workaholic mentality reminiscent of his upbringing on a Shropshire farm.
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Former West Ham manager David Moyes and Sullivan did an excellent job securing Bowen’s signing in 2020 for just £14 million, with bonuses based on performance. Sullivan never doubted Bowen’s character and ability to adapt to the Premier League—strengths that should benefit both club and country.
Elsewhere, in the football landscape, Ruben Amorim took a tour of Old Trafford, apparently impressed by the monumental history encapsulated in the club. As a new manager, he is encouraging his players to imbibe Manchester United’s heritage, although this comes amid significant cost-cutting measures undertaken by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. We wonder if these guided tours will come with an invoice!
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The Premier League is set to resume this Saturday following England captain Harry Kane’s call for a winter break for burdened players. With numerous injuries keeping key players out, it remains to be seen whether they will return refreshed or tired after this break.
Speculation continues around the imminent arrival of Thomas Tuchel as England manager, a move some are watching with raised eyebrows, notably with Carsley publicly admitting to enjoying soy lattes—oh, the horror!
As the UK struggles with winter weather, an unlikely story of environmental progress emerges from Formula 1, which from 2026 will adjust the Canadian Grand Prix schedule to make it easier to reduce emissions. Although sport is not at the forefront of a green revolution, this initiative could represent a step in the right direction.
Finally, let’s not overlook the spectacle of Jake Paul’s latest boxing adventure, which has generated much ridicule while continuing to dominate media discourse.
