Flynn Downes called ‘Absolutely outstanding’ as West Ham United loanee wows on Sky Sports
West Ham United midfielder Flynn Downes put in an “outstanding” performance for loan club Southampton against Leeds United on 4 May, according to Andy Hinchcliffe.
Downes, who returns to West Ham at the end of the season, played a vital role in the Saints’ 2-1 victory at Elland Road, clipping a high ball towards Che Adams and giving him time to find Adam Armstrong for their opening goal.
The midfielder will now head into the Championship play-offs with Southampton, who could be a Premier League side again by the time Downes returns to the London Stadium.
After Downes was withdrawn for Joe Rothwell in the 68th minute, Hinchcliffe summed his performance up on Sky Sports (1:59 pm): “Absolutely outstanding.”
Downes could be key after Southampton showings
West Ham are due to welcome Downes back to the London Stadium in just a few weeks, with the 25-year-old midfielder having at least two (and potentially three) matches left as a Southampton player this season.
Downes has made 34 appearances during his loan spell at St. Mary’s, after moving on loan to the south coast following one season at West Ham.
David Moyes played Downes 35 times in all competitions during the former Ipswich and Swansea midfielder’s first campaign in East London, but he was loaned out in the off-season.
With the Hammers set to undergo a huge period of upheaval and change this summer, with Moyes all-but certain to depart the managerial role, the Scot’s replacement may see a way back into the first-team picture for Downes.
In other West Ham news, Chris Sutton has tipped a return for David Moyes in 2024-25 if he is sacked by the club this summer.
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