Latest

Collison’s verdict on West Ham squad will surely excite fans

|
Image for Collison’s verdict on West Ham squad will surely excite fans

OPINION

There’s no denying the fact that West Ham United have had a quality, quality summer transfer window, perhaps even an underrated one.

The business done by Mario Husillos, Manuel Pellegrini and co. was largely terrific, strengthening a number of key areas and offloading a dissident in Marko Arnautovic.

Their work in the window has certainly attracted the attention of former midfielder Jack Collison, who wrote on his personal Twitter account on Friday that: “Dare I say it… This surely has to be the most talented squad @WestHamUtd have had in years…”

It’s hard to argue with that statement, and it’s one that will have the Hammers supporters excited for the new campaign to start against champions Manchester City on Saturday.

No one is expecting Pellegrini’s team to go out and beat Pep Guardiola’s side at the London Stadium – they’ve been handed the toughest opening day assignment in the Premier League – but, win, lose or draw on Saturday, this should be an exciting season for the east London outfit.

In Lukasz Fabianski West Ham have one of the best goalkeepers in the top flight, while their centre back partnership of Fabian Balbuena and Issa Diop excelled last time out.

They possess one of the finest central midfielders in England in Declan Rice, while Jack Wilshere is finally back fit and enjoyed a phenomenal pre season.

Don’t even get me started on the attacking midfield talent at the London Stadium. Pellegrini has to choose between Felipe Anderson, Manuel Lanzini, Pablo Fornals, Andriy Yarmolenko, Michail Antonio and Robert Snodgrass.

Then there’s the attack, anchored by club record signing Sebastien Haller. The Frenchman looks set to be capably backed up by veteran frontman Javier Hernandez and prolific deadline day signing Albian Ajeti.

With all that said and when you examine the squad in detail, it’s impossible not to agree with Collison’s assessment that this is the most talent West Ham squad in years.

Share this article