Jarrod Bowen is the most creative player in the Championship this season, setting the platform for West Ham United's push at the summit. The winger has fashioned 18 chances for his teammates, more than any other player in the division, and also leads the way for expected assists with a figure of 2.4.
His output is a key reason West Ham sit first in the Championship on 14 points after seven games. They welcome Wrexham this week in a fixture that has not been seen in the league for 45 years. The last league meetings came in the 1980-81 second-tier season, where West Ham drew 2-2 away and won 1-0 at home. Their most recent clash in any competition was a famous 1-0 FA Cup defeat to Wrexham in a 1997 third-round replay.
Bowen's form fuels Hammers
Bowen's creative numbers complement his four goals in seven appearances this term, making him the club's top scorer. His performance was central to the 6-0 victory over Wrexham just days ago, where he scored the opener and provided an assist. That result extended West Ham's winning run in the league to three games. The last time they won four consecutive league matches was back in November 2021 during their Premier League era.
Wrexham arrive having drawn four of their opening six league games, a pattern they have matched only three other times in their Football League history. West Ham's form, however, shows a single defeat in their last five outings, a 3-2 loss to Fulham last time out.
Victory would solidify West Ham's grip on top spot as they handle a packed September. The club's current standings position is a sign of a strong start, built on scoring 20 goals while conceding nine. With Bowen in this kind of form, the Hammers will be confident of extending their lead at the top against a side they have not faced in the league for generations.
First reported at bbc.com
