By Conor Hogan

In recent weeks, West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola has been in excellent form.

At the start of the season, it looked as though the Frenchman had lost his place in the Hammers’ starting eleven when then-boss Graham Potter dropped him in favour of new signing Mads Hermansen. 

However, the 32-year-old shot-stopper came back into the side upon the arrival of Nuno Espírito Santo as manager, and for the most part, his game has significantly improved.

Burnley blunder aside, Areola has looked so much sharper for the Hammers under the new gaffer – although he is far from the only player that fits that description.

The Irons’ No. 23 secured his side a point away at Bournemouth last month, producing a string of outstanding stops in a 2-2 draw at Vitality Stadium.

And Areola helped his side secure another point on the south coast on Sunday, pulling off some important saves late on at Brighton. 

In fact, it could be argued the Hammers ‘keeper made one save too many against the Seagulls, as his stop to initially deny Georginio Rutter in stoppage time was ultimately West Ham’s undoing – Brighton’s equaliser stood thanks to the Premier League’s farcical handball rule.

Areola proved a reliable goalkeeper under David Moyes, but since the Scot departed East London in 2024, Areola has often felt more of a liability between the sticks. However, he has revived his Hammers career under Nuno.

His sudden upturn in form speaks to the damage Julen Lopetegui – and even more so Graham Potter – inflicted on the Irons’ confidence; the resurgence of Jean-Clair Todibo alone shows how effectively Nuno has restored belief in his players.

West Ham’s back line has raised its level noticeably since November, and Areola has been at the centre of that improvement, often proving the Irons’ hero. Long may this excellent form continue.