Former West Ham United defender Glen Johnson believes the club are missing Mark Noble as they battle against relegation.
The Hammers' long-term captain hung up his boots at the end of last season after an 18-year career at the club he progressed through as a teenager.
In his absence, the east London outfit have struggled to maintain the form that saw them finish seventh last season and reach the UEFA Europa League semi-finals.
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This season, David Moyes' side find themselves two points from safety after escaping the relegation zone with last weekend's 4-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
Speaking to ICE 36 Johnson, who made his senior debut for West Ham, has claimed the club have missed Noble since his departure.
"West Ham has missed Noble. Nobody knows the club better than Mark Noble and he would have bought into his off-field role as captain and had a massive impact on the club at the training ground, in and out of the treatment room and on match days.
"He knows what the fans want and he knows what the club needs. Players that have been there and done it for so many years would have everyone’s respect and attention."
Noble was appointed West Ham's sporting director following his retirement, a position he has held since January 2023.
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