Jarod Bowen dropped the coldest, least-media trained response of the year when asked about his performance against Brighton

Brighton 1 – 1 West Ham United : Nuno’s choices rated as Hammers share the points

West Ham’s head coach would have made few friends with his starting eleven for this afternoon’s south coast encounter. Hammers fans had thought they’d seen the last of Guido Rodriguez, the one remaining legacy from the Irons slow stodgy midfield of last season. Especially after the Magassa-Potts-Fernandes combo had performed so well at Old Trafford.

With a three-day turnaround perhaps Nuno had issues to juggle that may come out after the game: However seeing that Potts and Magassa were on the bench that selection was something of a head scratcher. Perhaps limiting the youngsters’ game time? Seeing how the team performed in the first half – more of that later – the five plus two midfielders did a pretty decent job keeping Brighton down to no shots on target in the first half.

Strange team selection or stroke of genius?

Mistifying to see no Earthy or Marshall even on the bench. No changes from either side at half time. First change by Brighton bringing on Hinchelwood- Nuno responded swiftly after Rodriguez’ leaden-footed late challenge and a yellow card, Potts introduced immediately, at 62′ with Rodriguez making way. Surprised he lasted an hour.

Two more Brighton subs and Callum Wilson brought on by Nuno for Summerville. Immediate impact as Wilson turned creator for Bowens brilliant strike. Kudos to the coach That’s what happens when you keep a striker on the pitch for the last quarter. Even Matthew Upson commentating:” Nuno has managed this game very well”.

Nuno is nothing if not full of surprises. 81 minutes and its Paqueta, Fernandes and Diouf withdrawn with a debut for Ezra Mayers, Soucek and Magassa on. Brave move- couldn’t blame any of the trio for Brighton’s equaliser. Nuno’s choices looked pretty much vindicated-from the selection and set up to the subs. Solid 7 for Nuno this week.

From the old Bobby Moore Upper to the Billy Bonds’ stand these days – sometimes- have to admit I have not renewed my season ticket… I’ve been watching since ’03 and a supporter since about 1970..

Favourite player – Dean Ashton: Still watch YouTube repeats of the Cup Final of 2006 hoping in vain that Shaka Hislop grows six inches and stops Steven Gerrard’s injury time equaliser. Can tell I’m getting old knowing I saw both Mark Noble’s debut and his last game at West Ham.

Pulling on a Claret and Blue replica shirt still makes me feel the same butterflies as when I was seven years old. Magic.