West Ham’s 1-0 victory over Chelsea on Saturday provided three much-needed points as the win saw the Hammers climb up to 13th and they are now four points clear of the relegation zone.
There were many admirable performances, veteran goalkeeper David Martin, son of club legend Alvin Martin, made some excellent saves to keep West Ham in the game while Aaron Cresswell performed well, whipping in crosses and finding the decisive goal after half time.
However, fans have taken to social media to sing the praises of centre back Angelo Ogbonna as the Hammers kept their first clean sheet in eight matches.
Hammer of the year so far đ
— Jamesâď¸ (@Eggywhu) December 1, 2019
Our best centre back right now đđź
â Stef (@StefGoodridge) December 1, 2019
So underrated! solid yesterdayâ
â Callum Sharp (@Callumsharp7) December 1, 2019
Might get crucified for this but Iâve said all season, heâs our best defender. Him and balbuena looked solid yesterday. Like having the balbuena of last season back â
â imahappyhammer85 (@imahappyhammer2) December 1, 2019
The Italian’s solid defensive display on Saturday delighted West Ham fans and Ogbonna’s importance has been highlighted. But, some fans questioned why Manuel Pellegrini dropped Ogbonna earlier in the season, seemingly for no particular reason.
Definitely, still absolutely perplexed when Pell dropped him after game against Everton unfortunately he wasnât alone that day. He has been outstanding particularly last season after Diop & Bal took his place he has never ever let us down. Hammer Of The Year by mile TOP MANCOYI
â rshearthstone (@rshearthstone1) December 1, 2019
We should drop him now tho, thatâs how it works doesnât it pellegrini?
â Jaymo (@JaymoWHUFC) December 1, 2019
Ogbonna was instrumental for West Ham on Saturday, especially in closing stages as he made several key clearances to repel Chelsea. However, it remains to be seen whether Pellegrini will stick with the Italian as he has a history of dropping him. Surely he has to stick with Ogbonna after Saturday’s solid performance?