David Moyes, West Ham’s manager, had to make a key decision in their 5-0 win against Freiburg in the Europa League. Lucas Paqueta, who had notched the game’s first goal, took a hit in the first half. Despite his contribution, by the 62nd minute, James Ward-Prowse came on to replace him. Moyes later revealed to TNT Sports the reason for this decision.
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Initially planning to sub Paqueta at the break, the situation was reassessed given the midfielder’s eagerness to keep playing.
“He was injured in the first half, and he was unhappy at half-time as I was going take him off then,” Moyes recounted. The decision to keep Paqueta on beyond the half-time break was a calculated one, fuelled by the upcoming schedule and the need to keep Paquetá healthy.
Ward-Prowse replaces Paquetá 🔁
⚒️ 3-0 ⚪️ (62') pic.twitter.com/D3qLmorWLY
— West Ham United (@WestHam) March 14, 2024
Paqueta’s frustration upon being substituted impressed Moyes. “He wanted to stay on at half time, but I just felt as if we got the goal and I didn’t see the point of risking him with a game on Sunday,” the manager explained. This shows Moyes’ approach to player management — balancing immediate on-field needs with longer-term health and performance.
“I’ve got to make sure his injury wasn’t going to get any worse. It’s good, I like it when they don’t like coming off. It shows you they care a wee bit!”.
