West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola is relishing making the step up to being the clubs number one goalkeeper this season
Our Hammers have started off the season in electric form, beating the likes of Brighton and Chelsea and only narrowly losing to defending Champions Manchester City at the weekend.
While Jarrod Bowen, Kurt Zouma, and James Ward-Prowse have grabbed the headlines, keeper Alphonse Areola has also been pivotal to our recent run.
A big question going into this season was who would be West Ham’s number one with both Lukascz Fabianski and Alphonse Areola prime candidates for the role.
With Areola seemingly Moyes’ first choice to wear the gloves during this campaign, the frenchman has certainly re-paid the faith in his managers selection.
While seven goals in five games may at first glance make for grim reading, stats wise Areola is one of the most in-form keepers in the league.
West Ham’s number one has recorded 26 saves (the second best tally in the league) the third most punches and the second most high claims.
While the Hammers lost to City 3-1 at the weekend, Areola was on top form and frustrated Pep Gaurdiola’s side for most of the afternoon with some massive saves.
In a recent interview with West Ham, Areola said: “I think we did well. We showed that we are good on the ball, solid at the back and I think we deserved a bit more from the game.
“I’m just trying to give my best in every game – I’m here for that and I’ve worked all my life for that, so I’m enjoying being here to help the team. That’s my main thing – to enjoy it.
“I’ve had good games, but it’s always better when you win”
Having received the full support of his teamate Fabiański as the keepers understudy, Areola is ready to return the favour.
“I am a team player and I always want the best for the team, if everyone works well and does their best for the team, everyone will be rewarded.
“I will push him [Fabianski] wish him the best of luck and try to prepare him well for his games, as he has done with me.
“We’re here for the team, we’re here for each other, so let’s compete and try to win another trophy together.”
Written by Riley Finch
