West Ham assistant Irvine points to striker solution after praising depth

Alan Irvine was impressed with the way players took their chances for West Ham and hinted they have found a new striker solution.

West Ham have now won five games in a row in all competitions, also recording four clean sheets in that time.

Their 100 percent record in 2021 continued with a 4-0 drubbing of Doncaster in the FA Cup fourth round, which sets up a tie with either Manchester United or Liverpool.

While the club have been focusing on bringing in a new striker in recent weeks, this game gave them an opportunity to explore some of their other options – and players took their chances to impress whether young or experienced.

Assistant manager Irvine told BBC Sport: “Very professional and strong. It is another clean sheet and another win.

“We are delighted that players who were given the opportunity to start have taken that. That is what you hope for.

“There is no way we would play a team we didn’t think were strong enough. Full marks to them in the way they approached the game. They have strengthened their claim for places.”

One player who did so was Andriy Yarmolenko, who started up front and marked his appearance with a goal.

The club are looking for a new striker after selling Sebastien Haller and are having to make do with makeshift options at present, but the Ukraine international showed he can provide there.

Irvine said: “He is another answer. It was good to see him play there.

“He has done it for Ukraine in the past. We know his talent.”


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Irvine hails special day for youngsters

West Ham were able to send on some younger players during the game and one of them in particular made an impact.

One day after playing for the under-23s, Oladapo Afolayan came on and scored their last goal.

Irvine was delighted that the youngsters could show what they could do in a competition they are looking to thrive in.

He said: “Terrific. Two of the boys played yesterday for the U23s. It was special for all of them but especially for Oladapo to get his goal.

“We have a squad of players who if we keep fit are strong enough to make changes. The FA Cup is a fantastic competition and vitally important that we try to do as well as we can.”