YOU SHOULD NAUT HAVE DONE THAT
MARK HUGHES claims Marko Arnautovic might have been lynched by Stoke fans for provoking them.
Arnautovic responded to jeers from Potters supporters by crossing his arms to make the Hammers’ sign, and thumping his badge, before gleefully celebrating his goal in front of them.
In the summer, the 28-year-old forward (above) forced through a £25million move to West Ham, and Hughes says he should have shown more respect for the club which relaunched his career.
“He was doing all sorts by the end and did well to get back to the dressing room safely,” said the Stoke boss.
Hughes berated Arnautovic, when he was substituted, and said: “He should have risen above any criticism or abuse he had.
“This place was very, very good for him. The fans loved him here, so to burn all your bridges after just one game, I thought, ‘You don’t need to do that’.”
Arnautovic’s goal was his second in a week and the Austria forward has been transformed under David Moyes.
The West Ham boss revealed he gave the star an ultimatum to knuckle down, and reckons he could become a fans’ favourite.
“I think he could be,” said Moyes. “I think we were previously a little bit disappointed with him and said to him, ‘You’d better run around because, if you don’t, you won’t play’. He said, ‘OK, I’ll do that’.
“Most of the people round here, who have watched him, know he’s a good technician and has ability.
“So, if we can marry those two things together, we will have a good player.”