Manor Solomon has explained why his West Ham performances have dipped in recent weeks, revealing he has been struggling with illness after international duty as pressure grows on Nuno Espirito Santo to hand Edvin Austbo a starting role.

The Israeli winger has come under increasing criticism from Hammers supporters following a series of unconvincing displays, including the crucial 1-0 victory over Swansea.

But Manor Solomon insists there has been a reason for his recent West Ham struggles and is adamant he is now ready to rediscover his best form as West Ham prepare for Saturday’s clash with Southampton.

The 27-year-old has also made clear that, despite the criticism, he is thoroughly enjoying life in east London.

Solomon reveals reason for West Ham struggles

Speaking to West Ham’s official website, Solomon admitted that illness following international duty has affected his performances and energy levels.

“I’ve really enjoyed it here so far this season,” Solomon said of his time with the Hammers.

“We’ve had some ups and downs, and there have been intense periods with lots of games, but we’re in a good place and we feel we can keep progressing.

“Over the last few weeks I was struggling a bit with illness after being away with the national team, so I wasn’t in the best shape and I didn’t have the best energy.

“Now I feel that’s behind me, and I’m ready to help the team at my maximum for sure.”

It is an important explanation from a player who has found himself under the microscope after an encouraging start to his West Ham career.

Whether it will be enough to convince West Ham fans, or more importantly manager Nuno Espirito Santo, that he should keep his place remains to be seen.

Solomon scored on his debut against Burnley and subsequently found the net in the 6-0 victory over Wrexham. But his recent displays have failed to maintain that early momentum, leaving Nuno facing increasing calls to make a change on the left flank.

The winger’s explanation offers some context for those performances, although he now needs to demonstrate that he is fully recovered and capable of delivering consistently.

Austbo’s West Ham statistics make uncomfortable reading for Solomon

Solomon’s illness may explain his recent dip, but it does not remove the pressure being applied by Edvin Austbo.

A comparison of nine key statistics highlighted by Hammers News also favoured Austbo over Solomon in seven categories.

Austbo’s combined goals and assists rate per 90 minutes was 0.84, compared with Solomon’s 0.21. The Norwegian also averaged 1.26 successful crosses per 90 minutes against Solomon’s 0.53, while recording 2.09 shots on target compared with the Israeli’s 0.53.

Austbo also comfortably led for line-breaking passes and touches in the opposition penalty area.

Solomon did have advantages, creating more chances and completing more take-ons. That suggests there remains a useful attacking player within him, but supporters have questioned whether his dribbling is translating into enough genuine danger in the final third.

The statistics provide a compelling argument for Austbo, particularly given his willingness to attack defenders and deliver balls into dangerous areas.

However, they do not tell the whole story. Solomon’s illness is relevant context, and his response now will be important in determining whether he retains his place.

West Ham have enjoyed an impressive run of results under Nuno, but performances have not always convinced. The manager has increasingly been urged to make changes that could give the team greater attacking threat.

Austbo’s emergence has made that decision more difficult to ignore, particularly after his impressive contribution against Lincoln and his subsequent opportunities from the bench.

Solomon, meanwhile, appears determined to prove that his recent struggles are temporary rather than a sign that he cannot meet the demands of the role.