Many of Graham Potter’s big problems at West Ham were summed up in the draw with Bournemouth.
If West Ham open up a bit more and try to attack, they are more vulnerable at the back.
But if they play more conservatively they don’t ever look like scoring and Hammers fans, justifiably, get restless.
That in itself is a big issue. The London Stadium atmosphere has suffered badly as a result of West Ham’s struggles over the last 15 months.
West Ham found themselves 1-0 down at half-time against Bournemouth having lost in midweek to Wolves.
Graham Potter’s side were booed off at the break – and not for the first time.
Captain Bowen to the rescue for West Ham – yet again
Captain Jarrod Bowen did an Ange Postecoglou in response.
When he scored in the second half to make it 2-1, Bowen cupped his ears to West Ham fans and gestured at them to create a better atmosphere.
The reaction from Bowen was a strange one given how bad West Ham have been for so long now.
The Hammers are lucky fans are still turning up to games let alone telling them to make more noise.
With the Hammers fighting to avoid being the worst team in the Premier League besides the relegated sides, everything must change this summer.
The skipper clearly agrees too.
Because what Bowen mouthed at West Ham fans is now Potter’s biggest concern.
It will not have gone unnoticed among Hammers fans that Liverpool were linked with a fresh move for Bowen over the weekend.
Murmurings have started over the club’s star player.
Speculation Bowen will want to play Champions League football to boost his England chances and that he might be disillusioned about where the team is heading have started to sprout.
The prospect doesn’t bear thinking about for fans.
What Bowen mouthed at West Ham fans is Potter’s major concern
Where West Ham would be without Bowen over the last five years is anyone’s guess.
But they would not have won their only major trophy of the last 45 years without him that’s for sure.
There’s even an argument to say the Hammers may have diced with relegation on a couple of occasions too.
West Ham’s reliance on Bowen has become over-reliance.
He runs himself into the ground every single week and scores or assists on a regular basis.
The man himself clearly feels he needs some help in east London. And it’s one of Potter’s single biggest issue.
Because Bowen was caught on camera mouthing two words at West Ham fans in the draw with the Cherries.
“Who else” Bowen bellowed at Hammers fans in what was more of a statement than a question as he wheeled away in celebration at the London Stadium.
The problem for Potter he’s right too.
West Ham have averaged just a goal per game under their new manager.
Without Bowen and Tomas Soucek’s contributions this season, the team would be bang in trouble.
The team are always so reliant on Bowen to be the one who turns it on week in, week out.
He clearly thrives on the pressure and responsibility.
Who else indeed as Bowen sends for Hammers help
But at some point West Ham have to surround him with other players who can get goals on a regular basis.
That has to be Potter’s priority in the summer window.
Evan Ferguson hasn’t worked out at all and will be sent back to Brighton.
Niclas Fullkrug looks like he might be able to share the burden – but has missed two-thirds of his debut season and will be 33 next term.
Crysencio Summerville looks a player who can step up – but his hamstring issues will now be a major concern.
Beyond that there is little else for Potter to work with.
While the whole of West Ham’s midfield is flawed and needs to be rebuilt, adding goals and guile is arguably of critical importance this summer.
