West Ham lack significant depth in the squad and have struggled in front of goal throughout the season, which may have left many fans wondering what might have been if one former target was signed.
WalesOnline state that Cardiff City ace Callum Paterson was previously a target for the Hammers during his time with Hearts but an ACL injury cost him the chance of a move to the Premier League, leaving him spending nine months on the sidelines.
The 23-year-old broke into the Bluebirds side this season and has excelled in an attacking midfield role, scoring three goals in his past three games to take his tally for the campaign to eight- and helping his side fight for promotion to the Premier League.
Now set to feature for Scotland during the international break, Paterson spoke about West Ham’s previous interest and issued praise to Cardiff boss Neil Warnock for showing faith in him.
“There was the stuff about West Ham being interested in signing me in the January, but nothing was set in stone. Thankfully, Neil took a chance on me last June, when I was still doing my rehab, and thankfully I’ve been able to repay him for that.”
“Everything happens for a reason. I have said that in the past. Things can go well at other parts of the season. I am doing really well at the moment. I am happy to be part of Cardiff and happy to be back in the national fold and back playing. It keeps my mind positive and everything else positive.”
Paterson will hope to show West Ham exactly what they’re missing next season if Cardiff get promoted and the Hammers avoid relegation.