The Praise for Jarrod Bowen
Jarrod Bowen has been hailed as one of the best signings at West Ham in the last quarter of a century by TNT Sports expert Neil Lennon. The Hammers’ captain, whose impact on the team has been nothing short of phenomenal, scored the winning goal in a memorable 1-0 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates last weekend. He was equally instrumental in the club’s 2-0 win over Leicester on Thursday night. Lennon, alongside former teammate Joe Cole, was effusive in his praise for Bowen, highlighting his consistent performance and unwavering determination.
"He just sets the example," Lennon said. "I’ve never seen him not have an impact in a game. He’s so direct, so fit, and he keeps going. He’s a really good finisher, and I just love watching him play. I think he’s been one of the best bits of business West Ham have done in 20, 25 years. He’s like Joe Cole was here, that talismanic sort of figure, but he does it through quality, great attitude, and determination. Let’s not forget, he came from the Championship, so he’s a hungry boy, and he’s never lost that hunger, he’s just got better and better."
Bowen’s Impact and Team Spirit
Joe Cole echoed Lennon’s sentiments, adding a personal touch to his praise. "He loves this club, he’s a hero at this club. If football stopped tomorrow, he’d be here at this club. He’s the right man to captain this side and take this club into the next generation. He’s been absolutely outstanding. The club are really, really lucky to have him here in his peak years. What he’s done in the last four years, we know there’s been sniffs from the Liverpools of this world, Arsenals, I’m sure they’ve been queuing up to get him."
Bowen’s form has been instrumental in helping West Ham steer clear of relegation this season. His 43rd-minute shot against Leicester, though deflected in off Jannik Vestergaard and recorded as an own goal, was a testament to his relentless effort and skill. Reflecting on the incident, Bowen quipped, "I’m doing my best. What defender wants an own goal? Four yards out, you’ve got to give it to me, haven’t you?" Despite the misattribution, Bowen remains focused and positive, stating, "I’m feeling good. That was my third 90 minutes since coming back from injury, and when you’re coming back from injury, there’s nothing that compares to a game. I’ve had some really good minutes, I feel in a really good place, I’ve scored a couple of goals—not tonight but hopefully by about 11 tonight they change their minds and give it to me! That’s probably the only disappointing thing; as an attacker, you want the goals."
International Aspirations
The upcoming international break offers a welcome respite for Premier League clubs after a busy period. For Bowen, it also presents an opportunity to showcase his talents on the international stage under the new manager, Thomas Tuchel. "It’s an exciting time, a new manager’s come in," he said. "There’s not been an international camp since November, so it’s been a long time. Sometimes that’s a good thing to get a good base and play week in, week out. That’s what I’m trying to do. Since I got the injury, it was just making sure I worked as hard as I possibly could to get back and then when I’m out there to do what I know I can do. If that takes me to a national call-up, it takes me to a national call-up. If not, I’ll keep doing exactly what I’m doing and keep trying every single time. It’s always there because playing for your country is an honour, but if it doesn’t come it doesn’t come, if it does, brilliant."
Graham Potter: A Perfect Fit for West Ham
While the spotlight has been on Bowen, Graham Potter’s managerial prowess has also been on display. Potter, who has recorded his third win as West Ham manager, has been receiving positive reviews. Joe Cole believes Potter is a perfect match for the Hammers. "The more I look at him on the bench as a West Ham manager, I think it’s the perfect fit," Cole said. "He’s composed, he’s measured; tactically, we’ve seen what he’s done with Brighton and Swansea. He’ll be a much better manager from his experience at Chelsea. What happened at Chelsea could’ve happened to any manager. That was carnage, what was going on there at the time. He’s come out of there unscathed, and this is the perfect job for him, young players to work with and players he knows. As long as the people buying the players allow the manager and his staff to have the final say on who comes through the door, you’ve got half a chance."
Looking Ahead: West Ham vs. Newcastle
West Ham’s next challenge is a home clash against Newcastle in the Premier League on Monday, March 10. The Hammers will look to build on their recent momentum, with Bowen and Potter at the helm, promising another exciting spectacle for the fans. Streaming options for the match, including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League, are available on TNT Sports and discovery+.
Conclusion
Jarrod Bowen’s exceptional performances have not only earned him accolades but have also solidified his status as a key player for West Ham. As the team continues to thrive under Graham Potter’s leadership, the future looks bright for the Hammers. Bowen’s passion and dedication, coupled with Potter’s tactical acumen, make for a compelling narrative in the Premier League. West Ham’s upcoming match against Newcastle will be a test of their recent form and a testament to their collective spirit.
