He has improved defensively - West Ham coach hails Kudus

West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui has lauded Ghanaian forward Mohammed Kudus for his commitment and diligence towards the team's progress.

The manager commended Kudus for finding his goal-scoring form in recent times with an enhanced work rate to aid the team.

Speaking to the media after West Ham United drew 1-1 against Crystal Palace, Lopetegui advised the Black Stars forward to stay focused and continue working hard.

"I'm not only happy with his goal, I'm happy with his commitment. He's improving a lot in his defensive commitment. The only way to achieve the level that he can achieve... is to be focused on the hard work for the team," he said.

Mohammed Kudus scored from a header after Jarrod Bowen's shot was palmed into his direction by Brighton's goalkeeper.

Brighton created more clear-cut chances, although they were all wasted, leading to the game ending in a 1-1 draw.

The result means that West Ham lies 14th on the league table with 20 points, having had a poor start to the season.

Watch highlights of Black Galaxies goalless draw against Nigeria



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