In Focus: Kudus striking while the Iron is hot

Mohammed Kudus has made a scintillating start to his West Ham career.

The Ghana international's brace in last Sunday's 3-0 win over Wolves took his Premier League tally to five goals in 14 appearances, of which only eight have been starts.

And he has also impressed in the Europa League by netting three times in five games.

Ahead of the Irons' clash with Manchester United today, we take a closer look at Kudus' eye-catching form in East London.

Classy Kudus

Kudus' numbers make for encouraging reading, particularly for a player still adjusting to new surroundings.

He is averaging 0.57 goals per 90 minutes in the Premier League, with only Jarrod Bowen scoring at a better rate for West Ham (0.63).

The 23-year-old has also brought directness and attacking intent in the final third to the Hammers.

Kudus has completed an impressive 3.79 take-ons per 90. By comparison, Said Benrahma is the next most effective dribbler in the squad with 2.04 per 90.

The Hammers' No14 is contributing off the ball too, ranking first in the team for possessions won in the middle third of the pitch per 90.

Operating primarily on the right of a front four, Kudus has settled in quickly and already appears to have developed a good understanding with the likes of Bowen and Lucas Paqueta.

First impressions

David Moyes was understandably pleased with Kudus' contributions in the victory over Wolves.

The Hammers boss said: "He's made a brilliant start here.

"I always say it's not easy for the boys coming here from other leagues to do well in the Premier League initially.

"I think he's doing great — he's getting goals, he's got assists as well and all round he's a really good player."

Making a strong first impression and establishing himself in the starting XI were always going to be the challenges for Kudus after his summer move.

But he looks to be continuing the momentum built with Ajax, having scored 18 goals in all competitions for the Dutch outfit last term.

AFCON absence

While West Ham will be delighted with their new signing's impact, there will also be some trepidation ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Kudus could be absent for up to nine games when he leaves to represent Ghana in the tournament next month, which would be a significant blow for a side still going strong on multiple fronts.

Moyes said: "Kudus is doing all the work for us. A really good boy to work with and obviously his goals and assists are really the things that are standing out.

"It is a huge blow [to lose him] because he scores goals and makes goals. We're going to have to find other ways.

"I have to say, we will hugely miss him."

For now, though, West Ham can still call on Kudus — and they will hope he continues his fine form against United at the London Stadium.