Arne Engels has earned a “world-class” verdict after another influential performance for West Ham United.
The Belgium international supplied the assist for Konstantinos Mavropanos’ equaliser during Tuesday night’s 3-2 Championship victory over Bolton Wanderers.
West Ham had fallen 2-1 behind before Engels curled a dangerous free-kick towards the back post, where Mavropanos headed beyond Gavin Bazunu.
Speaking during Sky Sports’ live coverage, former Wolves midfielder Dave Edwards said:
“This goal is all about Engels. It’s a fantastic delivery; world-class.”
Edwards highlighted the pace and trajectory of the delivery, which left Bolton with little opportunity to prevent Mavropanos reaching the ball.
Mavropanos praises Arne Engels delivery
Mavropanos has now offered his own assessment of the midfielder’s set-piece quality.
Speaking after the victory, the West Ham defender said:
“Set-pieces are things we work really hard on.”
He then praised Engels directly, saying the Belgian has “great delivery” from dead-ball situations.
That quality is becoming increasingly important for Nuno Espírito Santo.
Engels arrived from Celtic during the summer for a Championship-record fee and has quickly become a regular in the West Ham midfield.
West Ham’s official Engels profile describes him as a set-piece specialist and confirms he produced 39 direct goal involvements in 100 appearances for Celtic.
Engels becoming key player for West Ham
The numbers from our own site suggest this is no isolated performance.
ReadWestHam highlighted Engels’ growing influence alongside Divine Mukasa after the 3-0 victory over Derby County.
He followed that display by creating one of West Ham’s most important moments at Bolton.
Our player ratings from the 3-2 victory also highlighted another productive night from the midfielder.
Engels has only been at London Stadium for a matter of weeks, but his ability to dictate possession and create opportunities from set-pieces is already giving Nuno another major weapon.
Friday’s clash with Wrexham offers him another opportunity to underline that growing influence.
