Andy Carroll has spoken of his desire to secure a first team place in an interview with the club’s official website.
After his superb hat-trick at the weekend and Diafra Sakho’s recent absence, Carroll is determined to become the club’s main striker:
“It’s been tough not starting but it’s worked well and I’ve done the right thing in training to keep myself fit and getting on for the last 30 minutes, but it’s not the place I want to be. I want to be the main man in the middle.
“I’ve said this before that he [Bilic] is a great manager and a great man. That’s something I’ve got to appreciate and respect and I do. It’s his decision to make the team and I’ve just got to fight for it in training and that’s what I’ve been doing.
“It’s something I’ve got to work for and when I get a start like I did at the weekend, I’ve got to show him what I’m all about.”
Carroll certainly showed what he could do with an excellent hat-trick at the weekend against Arsenal. Hammers fans will be hoping that the big forward will replicate a similar performance against Manchester United in the FA Cup replay on Wednesday evening.
The Geordie is certainly enjoying his football at the moment and is confident in what he can offer Bilic on the pitch:
“It was good getting another hat-trick as it’s been a while! It was a good game and a tough game, but I’m looking forward to the game on Wednesday now. If the ball comes in the box then I think I’m favourite. I am happy to challenge for it and if the timing is right, I think I’m going to get there.”
Slaven Bilic recently hailed the 27-year-old as the world’s best in the air and the Hammers may have to rely on his aerial prowess from now until the end of the season.
Although fans may be worried that the team will become predictable and one-dimensional with Carroll in the team, there is no doubt that with good delivery into the box, the Hammers will pick up points if the former Newcastle man can stay fit.
Alongside the creative ability of Manuel Lanzini and Dimitri Payet, West Ham should be able to find a balance with Carroll leading the line that is both effective and easy on the eye.
If Carroll keeps bagging the goals from now until the end of the season, there won’t be many fans worrying about West Ham’s style of play.
