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“Exceptional”- BCC SkySports Pundit hail West Ham star after what he did late on win vs Manchester United
Potter Impressed by Wan-Bissaka’s Impact at West Ham
Graham Potter has praised Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s performances this season, describing the defender as “really impressive” since joining West Ham.
Wan-Bissaka made the switch from Manchester United to the London Stadium last summer in a £15 million deal. His departure allowed United to bring in Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich as his replacement.
Areola Shines Against Former Club
Potter’s tenure at West Ham has been far from smooth, with the team struggling to find form since his appointment earlier in the campaign.
Despite Manchester United fielding a rotated lineup in preparation for their Europa League final, Ruben Amorim’s side had enough chances to do more damage. However, West Ham held firm, thanks in large part to Alphonse Areola.
The goalkeeper delivered a standout performance, especially late in the match. He denied a close-range header and then immediately blocked a follow-up attempt from Rasmus Hojlund, preserving West Ham’s clean sheet and easing any late tension.
Commenting live on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra on May 11, Karen Bardsley praised Areola’s heroics, saying:
“What a fantastic save from Alphonse Areola. Not only did he react to the initial header, but he also quickly got across to stop Hojlund at point-blank range. He just threw himself in front to protect his goal. Tremendous effort.”
Areola Stakes His Claim
With the summer transfer window approaching, Potter is preparing for a busy off-season. After limited activity in January, he is expected to have more flexibility to reshape the squad.
Among potential signings, West Ham have been linked with Burnley’s James Trafford, who could be brought in as the new number one. Such a move would cast doubt over Areola’s future as the first-choice keeper.
However, if Areola continues to produce match-saving moments like he did against United, he could still convince Potter that he deserves to retain the starting role.
