West Ham fell to a pitiful 2-1 defeat to Charlton at the London Stadium in the Championship on Saturday.

It was a truly woeful performance from Nuno Espírito Santo’s side, who were lucky to even be in with a chance of securing a point late on. But Taty Castellanos’ missed penalty in stoppage time ensured the Addicks left East London with all three points.

What perhaps was most infuriating today was the lack of character shown by Nuno’s side – and the boss himself. Taty looks more interested in having a scrap with the opposition than playing football. His antics are actually reminiscent of Lucas Paquetá, another player who was very talented but often allowed his emotions to get the better of him.

New signing Joël Piroe scored, yes, but otherwise looked largely uninterested. Konstantinos Mavropanos and Kyle Walker-Peters were uncharacteristically sloppy in possession – and we may just have to accept that Ollie Scarles is not fit for this level.

In a side that had eight players who featured for the Irons in the Premier League last season, for large portions of the game, the only player who looked genuinely motivated was new man Manor Solomon. The former Spurs man wasn’t as impressive as last week, but at least moved the ball with purpose.

Then there’s club captain Jarrod Bowen, who had an admittedly decent second half after a truly nothing first 45. The Irons’ talisman was a threat towards the end of the game and played his part in West Ham’s goal, but he was called into question by West Ham fans at the very end of the game.

When the Irons were gifted the opportunity to equalise with virtually the last kick of the game, Bowen chose not to step up to take West Ham’s penalty. Rather, he allowed Castellanos to take the spot-kick.

The Argentine had a poor game and Bowen had gathered some momentum late on – he should’ve taken responsibility, especially as captain. Of course, Taty missed, and the pair both still wait for their first Championship goal.

Bowen’s ability to lead has been called into question since taking the armband in 2024. Many say that his performances “lead by example”. But when a chance like this appears to get your team out of trouble, you have to take it. It would’ve been one thing for him to miss the penalty, but to not take it at all, especially after the game Taty had, was very disappointing.

But that’s not to say the loss rests solely on Bowen, far from it. Everyone on that pitch, from the players to the manager himself, displayed the wrong character during the game. The players failed to apply themselves, and Nuno failed to motivate them.

There are still 44 league games and plenty of time to go, but Nuno and his side desperately need to wake up and realise that teams won’t just roll over for them – quite the opposite, actually.

The Irons desperately need to toughen up and play to the level we all know that they are capable of – otherwise, it’s going to be one long season.