Michael Owen has identified Jarrod Bowen as the 'absolute perfect replacement' for Mohamed Salah at Liverpool, following West Ham United's relegation from the Premier League on the final day of the season. The Hammers secured a 3-0 victory over Leeds United at home, but a 1-0 win for Tottenham Hotspur against Everton meant David Moyes' side finished two points adrift of safety and will play in the Championship next term.
Bowen's Future in Doubt After Relegation
Speaking after the match, Bowen described discussions about his future as 'disrespectful' but hinted he would be willing to remain as captain for the Championship campaign. However, with Liverpool bidding farewell to the 33-year-old Salah after eight major trophies, including two Premier League titles and the Champions League, the Reds are actively seeking a replacement.
Owen's Strong Recommendation
Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen has urged his old club to move for Bowen. 'Under normal circumstances, no [he wouldn't stay],' Owen told Premier League Productions. 'But he is such a West Ham lad, he's the captain, adored by the club, his family are all from the area. If there's any big player who is going to be relegated and stick with it, you can see it. However, Jarrod Bowen is incredible, you've got a short career; he has to be playing in the Premier League. If something really interesting comes up—I've said for a long time, Mo Salah has gone now from Liverpool—I think Bowen is the absolute perfect replacement for Mo Salah at Liverpool. If an opportunity like that came along, even the most ardent West Ham fan couldn't begrudge that. Instead of playing in the Championship, go to one of the best teams in the world and fill Mo Salah's boots—it's really exciting for him. However, if an opportunity doesn't come from one of the big boys like that, then maybe he'll fight his way back into the Premier League with West Ham.'
Defoe's Perspective
Former West Ham striker Jermain Defoe, who was relegated with the club in 2003, believes Bowen might wait until January to move. 'I think for Jarrod Bowen, West Ham fans have to understand if he wants to go and play football,' Defoe said. 'He'll be hurting, obviously with the club being relegated as captain because you have to take responsibility, and also not getting in the World Cup squad. It will probably be the worst summer for him ever, and he's going to have to consider his future now. But saying that, he loves West Ham, his family loves West Ham. Could he stay there for six months? If they start well next season and it looks like they're cruising, then get him out of the Championship.'
