OPINION
West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini is a different breed to the two who have come before him, with his experience in winning the Premier League with Manchester City offering him a unique insight into what it takes to succeed in this division.
One issue that arises at every club is that of favourites or undroppable players, with certain managers favouring certain squad members who may not necessarily be the best for his system or in the best of form.
That has seemed to happen at West Ham in recent seasons, although David Moyes was forced to play certain out-of-touch players due to a long injury list.
The latest report on the situation at the London Stadium under Pellegrini has shed some light on how the Chilean intends to work at the club, and it is a promising read for Hammers fans.
According to club insider website Claret and Hugh, there will be no ‘untouchables’ at West Ham next season, with Pellegrini making it clear that no one is safe from the axe.
The report singles out captain Mark Noble and striker Andy Carroll as two players who may well be affected by this ruthless approach from Pellegrini.
Both men were in poor form for the club for much of last season, and Noble in particular managed to keep his place despite his obvious lack of impact in the centre of the park.
Unfortunately for the club captain this approach from Pellegrini will likely lead to him being benched for much of the 2018/19 season, with the Chilean wanting quicker players with more quality all over the park.
While sentiment may lead many Hammers fans to bemoan this decision, the fact is that the club need to move forwards, and Noble unfortunately holds them back with his slow play at central midfield.
There will be several other players at risk other than Noble, and this indicates that there are exciting times ahead for the club as Pellegrini implements this way of working which will guarantee progress at the London Stadium.
There is no room for complacency in the Premier League, and Pellegrini obviously recognises that, with fans in for a treat next term as the club enter a new era under the Chilean mastermind.
