Jarrod Bowen scored twice as West Ham overturned an early deficit to defeat Bolton 3-2 on Tuesday and move to the top of the Championship.

The Hammers endured a difficult start to life in the second tier after being relegated from the Premier League, failing to win any of their first three matches. However, three victories in the space of eight days have dramatically changed their fortunes and propelled them to the summit.

Bowen played a key role in West Ham’s rapid turnaround, with his decision to stay in east London following relegation providing a major boost to the club’s hopes of securing an immediate return to the Premier League.

His two-goal performance against Bolton further underlined his importance as West Ham look to maintain their momentum and establish themselves as early promotion contenders.

“I want to score goals, provide assists and help the team collect points, and tonight was perfect,” Bowen said.

“We knew it wasn’t going to be pretty and that we would have to work hard for the victory, but the most important thing was getting the win, and we managed to do that.”

The England international gave West Ham the lead after just 13 minutes, but Bolton responded through Ethan Erhahon before Ruben Rodrigues converted a penalty to put the hosts ahead.

West Ham quickly restored parity through Konstantinos Mavropanos, who rose highest to head an Arne Engels free-kick into the net.

Bowen then completed his brace 13 minutes from full time to settle the contest, although the winning goal came with a major error from Bolton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, who failed to hold the shot and allowed the ball to roll into the net.

Swansea were knocked off the top of the Championship on goal difference after their unbeaten start to the campaign came to an end with a 3-1 defeat away to Southampton.

Finn Azaz, Cyle Larin and Leo Scienza all found the net for Southampton, who have climbed into the top half of the standings despite beginning the season with a four-point deduction.

Burnley moved away from the bottom of the table but remain without a victory this season after being held to a 1-1 draw by Wrexham.

Elsewhere, Cardiff City and Stoke City shared the points in a 1-1 draw, while Preston and Blackburn both suffered 2-1 defeats.

Preston were beaten by Sheffield United, while Blackburn went down against Watford as the Championship table continues to take shape.