Reports are out claiming that Arsenal legend Martin Keown believes the absence of midfielder Dimitri Payet will hurt West Ham’s chances of finishing in a European spot in the Premier League.
The talented French midfielder has been ruled out for three months after suffering an injury in the draw against Everton two weekends ago.
When asked about his opinion on the impact of Payet’s injury on West Ham’s form, Keown wrote in the Daily Mail: “It’s a huge blow for them. Payet has been their outstanding performer this season and one of the very best in the league.
“It’s his technical brilliance and composure that has played such a large part in their astonishing away form. To go to Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City and win is special and beating Crystal Palace on their own turf is no mean feat these days. But his injury will obviously affect them.
“The good news is that I think West Ham look a very solid outfit now – their back four is settled and Mark Noble and Cheikhou Kouyate provide so much stability in midfield. That will help them against Tottenham but I think without Payet they will lack a cutting edge.
“People know what West Ham are capable of now on the road but there is so much confidence in this Tottenham group. They are young and inexperienced but they are really thriving on that. They are playing without fear. It should be a very good game but I have a sneaking feeling that Spurs’ form and confidence will get them through.”