“He’s a FLOP and have no Future at West Ham only OVER-HYPED by West Ham fans, absolutely LAZY and unfit for Potter”- Former West Ham star Tony Gale has delivered a scathing assessment of one West Ham player branding him “lazy and unfit” amid his constant SHAMBOLIC display
Tony Gale Slams Jean-Clair Todibo as “Lazy and Unfit” in Harsh West Ham Critique
Former West Ham defender Tony Gale has delivered a damning verdict on Jean-Clair Todibo, accusing the French centre-back of being “lazy and unfit” following an underwhelming debut season in East London.
Gale, who made over 300 appearances for the Hammers and was part of the iconic Boys of ’86 side, didn’t hold back in his assessment of Todibo’s performances, particularly after another poor showing in West Ham’s final game of the season against Ipswich Town.
High Hopes, Disappointing Reality
Touted as one of the club’s marquee signings last summer, Todibo joined from Nice in a deal structured as a loan with a near-guaranteed £32 million permanent move after just five Premier League starts and the club avoiding relegation.
While his technical ability on the ball and composure earned comparisons to Champions League-calibre defenders, his inconsistency, fitness issues, and attitude have raised serious doubts.
Todibo was regularly substituted before the 90-minute mark, and his lack of defensive focus was evident again versus Ipswich, where his failed challenge led directly to a goal.
In Hammers News’ player ratings, he was handed a 4/10 and described as looking “Champions League one minute, Championship the next.”
Gale’s Blistering Commentary
Commentating on the Ipswich game, Gale gave rare praise but mostly expressed deep concern over Todibo’s condition and commitment.
“He always seems to be breathing hard when I watch him,” Gale said on Premier League Productions. “He doesn’t look too fit for me.”
Gale went further, slamming the defender for his lazy tracking and lack of anticipation. “He doesn’t get back when he loses the ball… he ambles at times,” Gale added, expressing clear frustration with Todibo’s effort levels.
Transfer Regrets and Future Uncertainty
This criticism comes amid reports that West Ham are already considering flipping Todibo in the transfer market once his permanent move is confirmed.
Insiders close to co-owner David Sullivan have claimed the club is concerned by the player’s inability to complete full matches and disappointed by the return on their investment.
Adding to the frustration is the fact that West Ham turned down a chance to sign Nikola Milenković for £13 million — a potentially far more stable option.
Meanwhile, £40 million signing Max Kilman is still awaiting a dependable centre-back partner, and Todibo has yet to prove he can fill that role.
If Todibo remains at West Ham, the club will be hoping that a full pre-season under Graham Potter can spark a turnaround in both attitude and performance. Otherwise, a swift exit may be on the cards.
