“DEVASTATING” Nuno Santo Faces Big West Ham Decision After Max Kilman’s Horror Show Against Millwall

Max Kilman endures another difficult outing for West Ham against Millwall

Max Kilman endured another frustrating afternoon for West Ham United as the Hammers were held to a 2-2 draw by Millwall at The Den on Saturday.

With a hostile home crowd behind Millwall, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side appeared to struggle under the pressure during the opening 45 minutes. The hosts took advantage of their physical approach and long throws to establish a 2-0 lead before half-time.

Kilman had a difficult time dealing with Millwall’s attacking threat and looked uncertain on several occasions. His struggles continued after the interval, although Mohamadou Kante and Konstantinos Mavropanos helped West Ham recover to secure a point.

The 29-year-old defender has regularly found himself under scrutiny for his decision-making, and another questionable moment at The Den nearly proved costly.

How Kilman nearly handed Millwall a third goal

Kilman’s difficult evening was clear from the first half, but the centre-back was involved in another worrying incident shortly after the restart.

In the 54th minute, Jenson Metcalfe went down inside the West Ham penalty area following contact with Kante. Referee Paul Tierney rejected Millwall’s appeals for a penalty.

However, Kilman was largely responsible for creating the danger in the first place. His poor decision while attempting to play the ball back into midfield allowed Metcalfe to advance into a dangerous position.

Speaking on Sky Sports Football, co-commentator Andy Hinchcliffe criticised the defender’s involvement in the incident, saying: “The problems for West Ham all stem from Kilman just dropping the ball back into midfield. Terrible.”

The change Nuno could stick with at the London Stadium

West Ham will return to Premier League action at the London Stadium on 9 October following the international break, when they welcome Queens Park Rangers.

Nuno’s half-time adjustments against Millwall appeared to improve West Ham’s defensive structure and could give the manager something to consider ahead of their next fixture.

Kyle Walker-Peters was replaced by Kante at the interval, with the change helping West Ham adopt a more effective back-three system.

The Hammers looked considerably more secure defensively after switching formation, and Nuno could be tempted to use a similar setup when the team returns to action.

With West Ham appearing to lack sufficient quality in the full-back positions, the Portuguese coach may have to make some significant tactical adjustments as he looks to strengthen his side at the London Stadium.