OPINION
Manuel Pellegrini should hand Nathan Holland his first Premier League appearance against Leicester City on Saturday as he could be the spark West Ham currently lack.
The Hammers submitted one of their best performances in recent weeks against Manchester United, despite losing 2-1, but there is still room for improvement.
While Felipe Anderson is the type of player who can terrorise the Foxes with his dribbling ability, it’s clear that he lacks a player alongside him who could match his pace and help stretch the defence both ways.
Pellegrini’s side would benefit from having a player with fresh enthusiasm, blistering pace and one that will be fearless against the Foxes.
Enter Nathan Holland.
The 20-year-old attacker may have never played in the Premier League for the Hammers thus far in his career, but it’s time that changed.
Holland made the bench against Man United on Saturday and after not being brought on, is no doubt chomping at the bit to taste first-team action after being so close.
Pellegrini should use that to his advantage and unleash the Hammers gem who has been lurking in the club’s academy for so long now, that he can hardly be classed a secret.
The left-sided winger, who has previously dabbled as on the right flank as well as an attacking midfielder at youth level, is the perfect player for Pellegrini to inject into his side to build on the performance against Man United, and he shouldn’t hesitant.
This is especially the case when you consider West Ham’s clash with Leicester City is set to be at the London Stadium and seeing another homegrown talent on the teamsheet ahead of the game, is surely going to get a positive atmosphere flowing around the ground before a ball is kicked.
