OPINION
For all the problems on the left hand side of the West Ham United defence, it’s easy to forget that right back is fast becoming a major issue for manager Manuel Pellegrini.
The Evening Standard reported recently that Ryan Fredericks was going to be out for three months with an injury, while the Sun claimed earlier this month that starter Pablo Zabaleta was considering quitting the club for a stint in the United Arab Emirates at the end of the season.
Perhaps, then, the club might consider a January swoop for Liverpool right back Nathaniel Clyne. The England international is fit again after a long period of injuries, but appears to have no future at Anfield.
The former Southampton man has only made one first team appearance for the Reds this season, in a Carabao Cup defeat to Chelsea.
While he’s been out injured Clyne has been usurped by starlet Trent Alexander-Arnold, while Joe Gomez can also operate at the position, making Clyne surplus to requirements on Merseyside.
With West Ham’s right back situation looking somewhat precarious, it’s worth manager Manuel Pellegrini taking a punt on the Liverpool man.
Before his injuries Clyne was one of the finest right backs in the country, and at 27 years of age he is younger than he seems.
His attacking ability is underrated on the right hand side, while he is a solid defender. His pace would be a huge weapon for the Hammers and he should only now be approaching his peak.
Any move for an injury prone player is a risk, but in this case it’s one worth taking for West Ham. Whoever signs Clyne and gets him back to his best will have a top player on their hands.
West Ham need reinforcements at right back and Clyne is someone who will likely be available. There is no doubt that the Englishman is someone Pellegrini should be keeping an eye on in January.
