West Ham appear to be closing the season with one thing in mind: let’s solidify the defence.
Last week, we saw Slaven Bilic move to a 3-4-3 formation at home against Everton and for the large part it was a success. The Toffees were limited to very few chances and the Hammers looked comfortable in all phases of the game.
For today’s trip to Stoke, again, the Hammers employed a 3-4-3 with the same starting XI as last week and were, for the most part, the better side.
If not for a number of terrific saves from Jack Butland, West Ham probably would’ve come away from this one with all three points but it wasn’t to be.
Here are our player ratings from today’s 0-0 draw with Stoke.
Adrian: 7
Made two great saves from Berahino and Arnautovic in the second half to preserve the clean sheet.
Jose Fonte: 7
Another strong display at right centre-back.
Winston Reid: 8
Won near enough every challenge on the day and was a rock in the middle of the back three.
James Collins: 7
Threw his body into every challenge today.
Edimilson Fernandes: 7
Growing into a right wing-back role. Was a great outlet on the wing.
Havard Nordtveit: 7
Built on last weeks outing with another solid display in midfield.
Cheikhou Kouyate: 8
Was making bursting runs into the final third all game and did a great job winning the ball.
Arthur Masuaku: 7
West Ham’s best player at the half but was forced off during the interval.
Manuel Lanzini: 7
Always forward-thinking. Had some great moments.
Andre Ayew: 6
Unlucky not to score when Butland saved his acrobatic effort. Was a greater influence in the second half.
Jonathan Calleri: 4
Spurned a number of great chances in the first half and lose his way in the second. Probably his worst performance.