West Ham 3-1 Luton: Hatters on brink of drop after defeat

One of the major criticisms of Moyes from West Ham fans – who have been demanding a change of manager since before he ended their 43-year trophy drought in the Europa Conference League last June – was his seeming refusal to give younger players a chance.

Given that, it is ironic a youth-team product scored the last home goal under the Scot.

Earthy’s first top-flight appearance, at Fulham last month, only lasted seven minutes as he sustained a horrible head injury that required hospital treatment.

Little wonder there was so much joy on the teenager’s face after he darted across the Luton defence to steer Kudus’ pass into the net with his first touch after replacing Michail Antonio.

It was the kind of moment that can make a career and, while Moyes will not be the beneficiary, Earthy looks capable of having a significant impact under Julen Lopetegui – when the former Spain and Real Madrid manager’s appointment is eventually confirmed.

By that point, West Ham had made a clear edge in class tell.

After a disappointing opening, Kudus and Lucas Paqueta’s invention was too much for Luton, who found themselves chasing shadows as the home side exploited growing gaps in the visitors’ midfield.

Bowen had opportunities to get the goal he needs to take the outright lead for most goals in a single Premier League season for West Ham.

He will have another opportunity at Manchester City on the final day but for now he remains level with Paolo di Canio on 16 after Kaminski kept out his best effort with his legs in stoppage time.