Some West Ham United fans were impressed with the debut performance of Alphonse Areola against Manchester United on Wednesday night.
The Frenchman joined the Hammers on loan from Paris Saint-Germain this summer, but he was an unused substitute in the first six games of the season.
He finally got the chance to start ahead of Lukasz Fabianski in the Carabao Cup third round and put in a good showing on his debut for the London club.
Areola started nervously in the opening half at Old Trafford with several misplaced passes but made amends as the game went on with six saves.
He looked assured as the game went on. His crucial interception came in the back end of the game, denying Mason Greenwood from scoring with his right foot.
The 28-year-old was far from impressive with his distribution on the night. He completed just 16 of his 31 passes attempted over the 90 minutes.
The Hammers still came on top with a 1-0 win, thanks to Manuel Lanzini’s ninth-minute goal. Some of the club’s faithful were pleased with Areola’s showing.
Twitter reactions:
#MUFC could not get past the #WHUFC back line and make chances count. Alex Kral and Mark Noble have been key factors due to tackling and dispossessing.
— James Sneddon (@JamesSneddonWHU) September 22, 2021
Bowen and Johnson have been good at moving the ball. Areola has been a force in net.
Areola is a top class keeper as well, another unreal signing ⚒️
— Rio (@riobeare) September 22, 2021
It was anticipated that Areola would become the first choice after joining this summer, but Moyes has favoured Fabianski as the number one for the league and European games.
The Poland international has been a consistent performer despite turning 36. Areola may have to settle for minutes in the cup competitions initially before displacing the Pole.
The Hammers have the option to buy Areola next summer. He left a good impression on his debut and will be aiming to impress further to secure his long-term future with the club.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
Read: Manchester United fans react to Donny van de Beek’s display vs West Ham.