MY ACCOUNT
Jarrod Bowen’s stock keeps climbing — and the West Ham star could be on the cusp of a first England call-up.
Right now, the Hammers forward is enjoying the most purple of purple patches as he continues to have the season of his career.
So, as Bowen looks to wreak havoc on Wolves this afternoon, we take a look at what he would bring to Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions set-up.
A sensational season
Bowen has scored a remarkable seven goals in his last eight games — and such a hot streak has been coming all campaign.
The former Hereford and Hull man has performed at the peak of his powers throughout his second full season with West Ham, finding the net 12 times in all competitions and laying on nine assists.
He has become the Irons’ go-to guy in the final third, regularly making the difference.
The 25-year-old proved as much earlier this month as he scored two winners in four days — first against Kidderminster, when David Moyes’ side avoided an almighty FA Cup upset, then against Watford as the Hammers continued their top-four push.
In good company
As well as being West Ham’s top scorer this season, Bowen is also their creator-in-chief.
With eight Premier League assists, he is rubbing shoulders with the division’s very best.
Only Liverpool trio Trent Alexander-Arnold, Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah have set up more goals.
Similarly, just three players (Alexander-Arnold, Salah and Bruno Fernandes) have fashioned more big chances than Bowen’s eight.
With that kind of output, coupled with his extraordinary work rate, it is not hard to see why Liverpool continue to be linked with a move for the Hammers’ No20.
Bowen keeps going
Watching Bowen as he relentlessly runs for 90 minutes can be energy-sapping in itself — but he never seems to tire.
And that remarkable indefatigability might have something to do with his off-season regime, which involves running through potato fields on his uncle’s farm in Herefordshire.
It may be unconventional but it seems to work for the forward — who has also credited the gruelling activity with helping strengthen his previously weak ankles.
Moyes on a mission
Irons’ manager Moyes has spoken of his determination to help Bowen earn international recognition.
Following West Ham’s FA Cup third round win over Leeds last month, he said: “If he [Bowen] keeps playing at the level he’s playing at, he’s going to get closer [to the England squad].
“Hopefully he’ll keep that pressure on Gareth [Southgate]. As a manager, you enjoy the thought of helping someone become an international.
“We’ll keep pushing Jarrod, keep trying to get him scoring and improve his game, and hopefully get him an England cap.”
Imagine the possibilities
While generally at his best when operating on the right flank — which allows him to cut inside onto his devastating left foot — Bowen’s finishing ability and explosive pace make him a useful centre-forward option.
And that versatility could help his England cause. The Three Lions do not have a player in quite the same mould, with neither of the two who come closest — Marcus Rashford and Ollie Watkins — having the best of seasons.
A right-wing combination of Alexander-Arnold or Kyle Walker and Bowen is certainly an exciting proposition.
And with England’s two games next month both friendlies, Southgate could be tempted to experiment and bring Bowen into the fold.
