West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus, having scored against Newcastle United just before halftime, cheekily requested a pitchside stool from a ball boy for his trademark celebration.
However, the ball boy declined, leaving Kudus to sit on the advertising board instead.
The Ghanaian put the Hammers ahead on the stroke of half-time at St James’ Park in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
Promptly after scoring, Kudus gestured towards the ball boy, hoping to utilise his pitchside stool for his celebration.
However, with Newcastle trailing, the ball boy refused to contribute to the Hammers’ jubilation, prompting Kudus to settle for sitting on the pitchside advertising board.
The goal was marred by controversy as well, with West Ham awarded a free-kick moments earlier.
Despite Fabian Schar being struck in the face, West Ham opted for a quick free-kick, releasing Jarrod Bowen behind the Newcastle defence before the Swiss defender could receive medical attention.
Controversy as West Ham Utd lead at the break 👀👇
You cannot give Kudus any time in the box 🌟
📺 Stream #NEWWHU live: https://t.co/TesYUfo62x pic.twitter.com/RiToQjDc8T
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 30, 2024
Kudus notched his 13th goal of the season, with seven coming in the Premier League—an impressive feat for a debutant who is not a natural striker.
Having joined West Ham from Ajax last summer in a deal worth over 40 million euros, Kudus has been a standout performer, although he will be disappointed that his goal on Saturday couldn’t secure a favourable outcome for the Hammers as Newcastle staged a remarkable comeback.
The Magpies, who trailed 3-1, secured a stunning 4-3 victory, leaving Kudus and his teammates disheartened.