West Ham United manager David Moyes opted to use a midfield two of Mark Noble and Declan Rice against Southampton last Saturday.
The Hammers won the match at the London Stadium in convincing fashion, with Rice putting in a superb display at both ends of the pitch.
The same, however, cannot be said about Noble. He had a pretty underwhelming afternoon in midfield and we feel that Moyes may need to consider letting him sit out a few matches.
But, why?
Noble only made one clearance, one interception and one tackle against the Saints, whereas Rice made five clearances, three interceptions and three tackles (WhoScored).
This goes some way to showing that Noble is not as effective in midfield as he once was, potentially paving a way for January arrival Tomas Soucek into the starting line up as and when he’s back fit.
Against Brighton and Hove Albion earlier this season, Soucek started in midfield alongside Noble and Rice and significantly outshone the club captain.
He made five tackles, three interceptions and three clearances in that 3-3 draw, compared to no clearances of interceptions from Noble (WhoScored).
The Czech Republic international is expected to be out for three weeks with an injury but upon his return, Moyes needs to seriously consider giving him a starting place ahead of the skipper as just playing the veteran based on his levels of years past could cost the side dearly.
We understand it could be considered as harsh because of everything Noble has done for the club, but fresh legs in midfield could do the team the world of good.
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