Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
SNOD FAIR!
Pellegrini angers Hammers fans by replacing goal hero and man-of-the-match Rob
ROBERT SNODGRASS is feeling the love at West Ham – just maybe not from his boss.
The Scot was the best player on the pitch in only his second league start of the campaign and then surprisingly subbed by Manuel Pellegrini.
Home fans were incensed by the decision to replace Snodgrass with Albian Ajeti as he was about to take an 86thminute corner.
And that chorus of boos was probably the loudest noise all afternoon. He scored the opener (right) a minute before the break then hit the post after Lys Mousset had levelled for Sheffield United.
But uncertainty remains as to his true worth to the side, despite nearly three years in east London.
Snodgrass, who has just 38 league starts for West Ham, said: “I love it here. I love the supporters. There has never really been any issue. I just want to perform.
“Listen, the manager is in the hot seat, he makes the changes and does what he has to do.
“I really appreciate the fans’ support they have shown me. I’ve been in the squad, out the squad, but it has been a magical club this. And the support has been magical. I’m just happy I’m showing what I can do. It’s been very frustrating watching.
“I’m a team player and I get that. But I’ve bided my time and hope I’ve taken my chance when it has come.
“I’m trying my very best to keep myself fit. I’m 32 and I’m feeling fit as I’ve ever been and trying to do my best for the team. Have I done enough to keep my spot? That’s for others to judge.
“I’m an honest pro and try to do well as I can.” It is now four Premier League games without a win for West Ham and they seem to have lost their way since the early season optimism had them flirting with the top four.
Snodgrass gave them the lead after a low-key first half as he slotted in after being fed by Andriy Yarmolenko after Chris Basham had misjudged a header.
But the Blades deservedly levelled when sub Mousset pounced on 69 minutes for his second goal of the week after Enda Stevens’ header.
Snodgrass agonisingly hit the woodwork after Yarmolenko got a touch on Pablo Fornals’ cross as the frustration at West Ham continued.
He added: “We had chances and it is up to us to take them.
“Premier League is tough, no-one will give it to you. I’ve played enough games to know anyone can come back. We have to put it right against Newcastle.”