Members of the national media have erupted over some major West Ham United news with club legend Mark Noble set to become new sporting director.
The Lowdown: Hammers confirm Noble return…
The Hammers shared some big news on Thursday with the announcement of Noble’s imminent return to the club, but not on the pitch or in the dressing room.
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Noble, who recently retired from the professional game after 18 full seasons with his boyhood team, will take up the role of sporting director on January 2 next year.
The former midfield star will work in tandem with manager David Moyes and the West Ham board of directors, where he will have a major say in player recruitment, academy development and other aspects of running the Premier League side.
The Latest: Media erupt over ‘unusual’ appointment…
Following this major off-field news, members of the media have been quick to voice their diverse range of opinions – with some praising West Ham but others calling Noble’s appointment ‘unusual’.
They explained:
“Mark Noble appointed West Ham’s sporting director. Exciting appointment.” – Sami Mokbel, Daily Mail (via Twitter).
“Having no Mark Noble around the dressing room has been a bit of an issue at West Ham this season. So his appointment as Sporting Director makes perfect sense.” – Ian Darke, BT Sport and ESPN commentator (via Twitter).
“So is Mark Noble now David Moyes’ superior? Maybe their relationship is strong enough but it’s…unusual.” – Daniel Zeqiri, The Telegraph (via Twitter).
The Verdict: Great move…
We believe the 35-year-old’s return to east London comes as a great move, mainly given his standing among the fanbase and knowledge of all things West Ham.
His popularity at the club and in the stands along with a strong relationship with Moyes’ squad already gives him a head start on the role, and it’s likely the former club captain has his fair share of insight on academy matters too.
You’d be hard pressed to find a man who knows the ins-and-outs of West Ham more than Noble given he spent nearly 20 years at Rush Green and make 550 senior appearances.
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