‘Magnificent’ – Lee Hendrie in awe of what Jarrod Bowen did in West Ham loss vs Nottingham Forest

'Magnificent' – Lee Hendrie in Awe of What Jarrod Bowen Did in West Ham Loss vs Nottingham Forest

Former Aston Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie hailed West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen as "magnificent" despite the Hammers' 2-1 Premier League defeat to Nottingham Forest on January 6, 2026, at the London Stadium. Speaking on his podcast, Hendrie expressed awe at Bowen's relentless performance in a match that deepened West Ham's relegation fears, marking their 12th loss in 21 games.

West Ham took an early lead in the 13th minute through a Murillo own goal, but Forest equalized shortly after when Nicolás Domínguez headed in from a corner. The game remained tense, with new signing Taty Castellanos—a £28m arrival from Lazio—making an immediate impact on debut, though a goal was disallowed for offside. Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels shone with double saves, denying Kyle Walker-Peters and Castellanos.

Bowen, rated 7.02 by analysts, was West Ham's standout. Hendrie praised his tireless running, key chances created, and a powerful late strike thwarted by a last-ditch Murillo block. "Bowen was everywhere—magnificent leadership and effort. He carried them," Hendrie said, noting Bowen's career record of 3 goals and an assist in 7 games against Forest.

The decisive moment came when Alphonse Areola's clearance struck Morgan Gibbs-White, earning a penalty that the Forest captain converted for a 2-1 win. Nuno Espírito Santo's side boosted their survival bid, while West Ham, without Callum Wilson amid his exit, gambled on new faces like Castellanos amid growing Championship talk.

Hendrie urged calm: "One player can't save them alone, but Bowen's display was pure class in defeat." West Ham stats showed 47% possession, 7 shots on target from 11 total, but Forest's efficiency prevailed (5 on target from 11). The loss leaves Hammers in turmoil, 16th or lower per projections.

(Word count: 298)