The decision to start Manor Solomon ahead of Edvin Austbo in West Ham United’s 3-2 home defeat by Southampton was not a popular one. Or, indeed, a sensible one, as it transpired.

For what felt like the umpteenth time this season, the former Leeds winger spent the afternoon banging in vain against a door when an expert lock picker was required. Manor Solomon was supposed to be West Ham United’s key – to continue the metaphor – against teams set up in a low block.

Manor Solomon so poor again and Edvin Austbo must start West Ham United’s next game

Calls for Edvin Austbo to replace Solomon were loud enough before the game. Now, as Solomon trudged off following another ineffective afternoon, those demands are set to reach eardrum-popping decibels.

Hammers News rated the 2024/25 Championship champion – he scored the goal that won Leeds the league on the final day, remember? – as the worst of Nuno’s outfield players.

One shot, none on target, a single accurate cross, zero completed dribbles, and a match rating of 3/10. When Solomon was finally replaced by Austbo – 63 minutes later than many fans would have liked – the expression on his face said more than words ever could.

His brow firmly furrowed, muttering under his breath. The dejected, hangdog expression of a man who misplaced a tenner and thought he had found a fiver, only to discover it was Monopoly money.

He’s unlikely to look much happier should Austbo take his place in the XI – as he surely deserves – when West Brom come to town next week.