West Ham United made a mistake in allowing young midfielder Josh Cullen to join Charlton Athletic on loan last summer, according to Claret & Hugh.
The reliable Hammers news source claims that the Hammers erred in giving the 23-year-old back to the Addicks for another season, with his outstanding form in the Championship this season proving that fact.
Indeed, the publication claims that the Republic of Ireland international is ready to return to the club in January and stake his claim for a first team spot.
And, with his current contract due to expire in the summer, there is a feeling that he should be recalled and have his deal extended on fresh terms.
OPINION
It’s hard to disagree with the fact that sending Cullen out on loan again last summer may have been a mistake. The youngster has been tremendous since returning to The Valley, picking up where he left off when helping them to promotion from League One last time out. However, his parent club have looked somewhat milquetoast in the middle of the park without him this term. Declan Rice has done a fine job as always, while Mark Noble has been pretty good. However, Manuel Lanzini has been poor, and none of Pablo Fornals, Robert Snodgrass, Carlos Sanchez or Jack Wilshere have looked capable of providing more quality and energy in the most important area of the pitch. Cullen, though, has certainly done that for Lee Bowyer’s side this campaign – the statistics prove as much. As per WhoScored.com, the Irishman is averaging 1.5 key passes per game, to go with two tackles, one interception and 1.5 clearances. He is an all-rounder who is proving he’s got what it takes to at least compete for a starting spot at the London Stadium.
