OPINION
There are going to be concerns with every single player that a football club signs. But, ultimately, they must put those aside if they really desire that footballer.
That is the case with West Ham United and Newcastle United star Jonjo Shelvey at the moment. The Chronicle reported on Tuesday that the Hammers were mulling over a £20million summer bid for the England international.
However, Claret & Hugh claimed on the same day that West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini has tempered his interest somewhat due to the injury problems that Shelvey has suffered this season.
The 27-year-old – an east Londoner himself having been born in Romford – is understood to be on the list of summer targets assembled by Pellegrini and director of football Mario Husillos, but is no longer a standout name as a result of his lack of football this term.
While that is a legitimate concern, it’s not as if Shelvey has a significant track record of injuries. He’s had the odd niggle over his career, but he’s no Jack Wilshere, that’s for sure. Besides, that wasn’t enough to put Pellegrini off the former Arsenal star last summer, was it?
Shelvey is a more reliable proposition than Wilshere was when he was brought in, while he has all of the talent to make a big impact alongside Declan Rice in the centre of the Hammers midfield. It’s only been his injuries and the form of youngster Sean Longstaff that has prevented him from playing more this campaign.
It would be a gamble to bring Shelvey in, but not to the extent that Pellegrini should decide against it. The rewards outweighs the risks here, especially when you consider what a phenomenal blend of attributes Shelvey and Rice possess.
Besides, West Ham are short on central midfield talent. Wilshere and Carlos Sanchez are long term injury absentees, meaning that you don’t know what they’ll look like upon their return. Pedro Obiang, meanwhile, is expected to be sold per Claret & Hugh’s report.
So a central midfielder is needed at the London Stadium and Shelvey is just the man to fill the gap. Pellegrini must put aside his concerns and take a punt on the Newcastle star.
