Julien Faubert is one of the longest serving players at West Ham United however, throughout his time with the club he has faced criticisms from the fans. The Frenchman has been accused of lacking interest and passion but this season has seen him improve his attitude that has affected his performances on the field. He has been a key figure for West Ham United but does he deserve more credit for his excellent displays this season?
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Faubert was signed by Alan Curbishley in 2007 from French club Bordeaux for over six million pounds. The Frenchman nicknamed “Le TGV” or “Express Train” for his blistering pace, had a nightmare start into his West Ham career when he suffered a ruptured achilles tendon that forced him out on the sidelines for six months. He had to wait until January 2008 to make his full debut for the club and looked half a yard slowly because of the injury he suffered. His first season with the club ended in frustration as he only made eight appearances in all competitions due to continuing injury problems.
The following season Faubert come under huge criticisms from the West Ham fans for his lacklustre performances. The Frenchman was often found out of position, over hitting his crosses and gave the impression he did not want to be at the club. As a result, he was loaned out to Real Madrid. During his spell with the Spanish giants he was also accused of lacking interest. He was reported to have missed training mistakenly believing it he had a day off and he was caught sleeping by cameras whilst on the bench during a game. He only made two appearances for Los Blancos and returned to West Ham.
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The departure of Lucas Neil gave the Frenchman the break he needed at West Ham to establish himself in the first team and he grabbed the opportunity with both hands. He made thirty-six appearances in all competitions and set up vital goals as West Ham narrowly avoided relegation. His excellent match winning performance against Hull City earned him the ‘Performance of the Season’ award and he was named the ‘SBOBET Player of the Month’ for August. However, the departure of Gianfranco Zola saw Faubert fall behind the pecking order again and he only made twenty-one appearances the following season when the club got relegated.
Faubert threatened to quit West Ham after launching a blistering attack on the club for their treatment towards him for missing a game. The Frenchman was accused of walking out on the side after hearing he was not named in the starting line up and rushed to the hospital to his newly born son. He did not make another appearance for the Hammers that season and declared his intention to leave the club. However, the appointment of Sam Allardyce persuaded the Frenchman to stay with the club and his displays this season have helped the team reach the top of the table in the Championship.
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The Frenchman remained loyal to the club and accepted the challenge to get the club back to Premier League. He must be praised for his loyalty because leaving would have been the easiest option. Under Allardyce he has been the most improved player in the team and he is now a constant figure in the Hammers side. He has scored one goal and made five assists this season. His versatility has given Allardyce plenty of options and the Upton Park faithful are appreciating his excellent performances. He can play as a wing back, right winger and even a support striker like he did against Millwall. In that game he assisted Carlton Cole in valiantly leading the line by chasing down opponents, breaking up attacks and nearly scoring with a brilliant second-half header that crashed off the bar. Faubert was involved in the build-up to West Ham’s winning goal when he challenged Millwall goalkeeper for the ball before it broke for Winston Reid to smash home.
Playing constantly in the Championship will boost his confidence and make him a better player. He should try to emulate Liverpool’s Jose Enrique who also struggled in the Premier League when he was signed by Newcastle. When Newcastle got relegated to the Championship, Enrique found his form and improved dramatically. Should the Frenchman continue his excellent form and helps the club get promotion back to Premier League, he may be given an extension to his contract that expires in the summer.
Hello Etwal – That’s an interesting piece. I’m not sure if I agree with the notion of keeping him but Sam does have the knack of getting the best out of players. This is a classic case of giving someone a fresh start, building their confidence and going from there. I,like many others have been very frustrated with some of performances in the past but Sam has obviously told him he’ll give him a fair shot and he has been very good this season in very difficult circumstances. The Millwall game was a case in point when he stood up to be counted and played with heart, something that can’t be said for all guys from time to time. So, I’m not sure I would have bought him but clearly he has ability and now, commitment. Whether it would serve him and us well in the Prem, I’m not sure.
Lets not forget that for much of his Hammers career he was being played out of position, in a role deeper than had been used to. Given more of an attacking brief, and being able to use his pace and energy in a wide attacking role, i think we are now seeing exectly why he was bought to the club. Hammers fans just need to be fair to the guy; if hes performing well, week in and week out then get behind him and show your appreciation. I actually think that that is now happening and hes beginning to build up something of a fan base amongst the faithful. If it was a straight choice between him and Nolan in the midfield, i know ehere my viote would go…..
The way he was treated by Avram Grant was disgusting. There is two sides to every story and I believe Faubert’s. This season he has been absolutely class. He has been able to play on the wing a lot more and whilst his crossing is still average he has played consistently well. I think it would be a real shame to let him go as he can play RW,RM or RB and versatile players in the PL are probably some of the most important.