West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui has opened up on his decision to substitute Mohammed Kudus at halftime during the 1-1 draw against Brentford, clarifying that it was a tactical move rather than injury-related.

Kudus, who enjoyed a brilliant debut season with West Ham, has struggled to replicate his form this term. He was substituted at halftime with Carlos Soler replacing him. The 24-year-old has now gone six games without a goal or assist.

"It was a tactical decision. I was thinking we needed that. I was thinking that was better for the team and we needed these kinds of changes. The second half we worked as a team," Lopetegui explained after the match.

Kudus has been visibly uncomfortable in his new role under Lopetegui, who has primarily deployed him on the wings this season

The Ghanaian midfielder, who scored eight goals and provided six assists last season, has yet to find the back of the net in the current campaign.

Kudus has made six appearances so far, five of which were on the left wing and one on the right, but his impact has been minimal.

His frustration has been evident, particularly after his goal against Chelsea was disallowed, with his body language suggesting discontent.

Last season, Kudus thrived playing across the front three and in his preferred attacking midfield role under David Moyes, often standing out as one of West Ham's most crucial players. However, with Lopetegui's tactical shift, he has struggled to find his rhythm.