Jarrod Bowen’s absence from tonight’s Europa League quarter-final against Bayer Leverkusen has been confirmed. Despite rumors suggesting his potential availability, the Hammers’ manager has quashed such speculation.
Adding to the setback, Moyes hinted at a secondary knee injury alongside the spinal bruising suffered by Bowen.
Moyes stated, “Jarrod’s not with us. He’s got an injury and he’s not available to play tonight. We’re not sure about when he might return at the moment.”
“We think when he got the knee in his back he’s twisted and he’s probably damaged a bit of something, a bit like a fast bowler gets in cricket. It’s about the rotation, which is where we think the damage has come from.”
“Jarrod will always be a miss because he’s a boy who’s played a big part in memorable games for us, especially in the UEFA Europa Conference League final last year.”
“But, these things happen in football, and we have players ready to come in to try and get the job done for us.”
Moyes’ acknowledgment that setbacks occur in football underscores the need for adequate wing cover, raising questions as to why reinforcements weren’t sought during the January transfer window.