West Ham suffered another humiliating defeat against Manchester City at the London Stadium.
It's only been a few short weeks since the Hammers were dealt an embarrassing 5-0 FA Cup defeat and, although City fell one short in this 4-0 rout, it could have been much, much worse for Slaven Bilic's hapless performers.
The Hammers finished the game in a virtually empty stadium, and the space in the stands matched the space given to City by an overrun side, bereft of ideas. Three-nil down at half-time to strikes by Kevin De Bruyne, David Silva and Gabriel Jesus, the visitors were kind to Bilic's side in the second period adding only a spot kick by Yaya Toure. In reply, West Ham offered nothing at all and a disgruntled crowd saw some supporters leaving as early as the 40th minute.
Positives
West Ham will not have to face Manchester City again this season.
Negatives
The London Stadium pitch is too large for the Hammers to hold a side like Manchester City who find space with ease. The transfer window signings have plugged gaps but not moved the team forward at all.
Manager rating out of 10
5 -- It's surprising that Bilic didn't start with Robert Snodgrass but, other than that, it's hard to see what the manager could do against a side like City. He might start by asking the owners to move the pitch even further from the stands so his team can at least attempt to crowd the opposition out. Other than that he needs to spend better; emulating last season's performances are just a pipe dream.
Player ratings (1-10; 10=best; players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating):
GK Darren Randolph, 5 -- Wasn't at fault for any of the goals and it's hard not to have some sympathy facing City on this form, but there's a nagging doubt creeping in that Randolph can't be called upon to help build confidence in games like this.
DF Sam Byram, 4 -- Bilic has sensibly decided to persist with the former Leeds full-back in the team's problem position although matches against teams like City will do the 23-year-old few favours. Ran ragged by Leroy Sane.
DF Winston Reid, 6-- Even Reid couldn't help the crumbling mess around him.
DF Jose Fonte, 4 -- The £8 million January signing from Southampton came into the defence in place of Angelo Ogbonna who has had a season-ending operation. Gave away a penalty and had a nightmare debut, he'll surely have better days in his new shirt.
DF Aaron Cresswell, 4 -- Was at fault for the first goal and did little to contribute at either end of the pitch.
MF Pedro Obiang, 4 -- Obiang's form has dipped lately and he gave the ball away for the third goal.
MF Mark Noble, 5 -- This was one of those games where Noble's commitment is apparent but his ability at the very top level is found wanting.
MF Sofiane Feghouli, 4 -- Has taken some steps forward recently but this was several back.
MF Michail Antonio, 4 -- Contributed little in a surprisingly poor display.
MF Manuel Lanzini, 4 -- Every game the Argentine plays now will cause supporters to talk about him filling the gap left by Dimitri Payet. Probably unfair, but Lanzini still looks a luxury in matches where the Hammers are under pressure.
FW Andy Carroll, 6 -- Another no-show against City but the big striker had nothing to work with. At least he put himself about a bit.
Substitute
Ashley Fletcher, N/R -- A substitute for Carroll on 79 minutes. It's easy to see why Fletcher is becoming frustrated with his opportunities, but he just seems a little short with the time he does have on the pitch. Perhaps a loan may suit.
Robert Snodgrass, 6 -- One half of a double substitution on 64 minutes replacing Obiang. Good to see the Scottish midfielder finally arriving at the club after being linked for so many years. Although it's not a debut he'll want to remember, Snodgrass at least looked lively.
Edimilson Fernandes, 5 -- Came on with Snodgrass and replaced the inept Feghouli but added little.