David Moyes backs Said Benrahma to have ‘big impact’ in West Ham push for Europe

David Moyes says Said Benrahma can help West Ham “a lot” across the final four games of the season as the Hammers push for a Champions League place.

The Algerian, who joined from Brentford last summer but has struggled to make an impact this season, was handed his first start since March at Burnley and shone in the 2-1 win.

Benrahma was at the heart of a frantic first half, posing a constant threat on the ball and laying on a wonderful assist - his fifth in the Premier League this season - for Michail Antonio’s second goal.

The fact that the 25-year-old impressed so much was made all the more remarkable when the game was paused late in the first half for him to break his fast for the day having observed Ramadan.

After a stuttering start in the Premier League, Moyes is confident Benrahma can play a significant role in the final push this season.

“I felt it was probably a game that was suitable for him,” said Moyes.

“I thought Said did a lot of good things tonight, but I thought there were a couple of things which he didn’t do so well which I think people will see as well and we are looking for the consistency from him.

“He got himself a couple of chances to score and made his chances, but I am hoping we have got [more of] them coming.

“I have a lot of belief in him, I think he is a boy who is going to take a little bit longer than most to settle for lots of reasons but I think he is just going to come into the squad now and help us a lot in the remaining four games and I hope we see that in the games to come.”

Asked what Benrahma needs to do to cement his place in the side, Moyes added: “He needs to be more consistent with his use of the ball. He needs to be more consistent with his decisions.

“His decisions have to be something we can all understand and we can read, and I actually think he needs to hit the target more often than he has done.

“I think if he hits the target more often he had a chance today where he bent one in the far corner, I was hoping that he would score.

“But I have to say he has been working hard in training, I like him a lot and I do think he has a big impact to play this season but I think in seasons to come as well.”

Read More

West Ham ready to go for ‘the big one’ in final weeks of season as David Moyes throws shackles off

West Ham must win all four games to beat Chelsea FC to fourth spot, says David Moyes

West Ham player ratings vs Burnley: Michail Antonio back with a bang as Said Benrahma shines