West Ham midfielder James Ward-Prowse admits that the Hammers were beaten by a “top team” at the weekend.

However, the 29-year-old says that doesn’t excuse the fact that the Hammers were so poor during the humbling 6-0 defeat to Arsenal at the London Stadium:

“We can all accept losing a game, that happens in football, but I think the way you lose is important and the most disappointing thing is the way we lost the game.”

“I don’t feel like we competed anywhere near the level you need to in the Premier League. Of course, they’re a top team who are challenging for the title, but I think they showed us today the level and the detail that you need to win games.”

The numbers from the game are hard to stomach from a West Ham perspective

The Gunners recorded an xG of exactly 4.00 on Sunday, with the home side only mustering a quite abject 0.19. In terms of shots, West Ham managed 5, with just 1 on target.

In contrast, Arsenal had 25 attempts, with 12 testing goalkeeper Alphonse Areola. On top of that, Mikel Arteta’s men had 71% possession as well as over double the amount of passes. It was as dominant as it can get in an English top-flight game.

The Irons are in freefall

David Moyes’ team have now conceded 9 goals in their last two Premier League fixtures without reply. They haven’t won in any competition since the reverse fixture against Arsenal all the way back in December.

Although West Ham remain eighth in the table, it is an extremely concerning run of form. They face relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest next up on Saturday.

After such an embarrassing defeat, fans will be hoping to see a reaction from the players. The aim against Forest will be to get the three points by any means necessary.