OPINION
It’s safe to say that so far this season West Ham United summer signing Albian Ajeti hasn’t quite panned out for manager Manuel Pellegrini.
The Switzerland international arrived from Basel this summer, but has been limited to just two starts in Carabao Cup action against lower league sides, where he didn’t exactly distinguish himself.
With that said, would it really be the worst thing in the world to give Hammers striker Jordan Hugill more of an opportunity at the club moving forward? His form on loan at Queens Park Rangers so far this campaign would suggest he’s worth the risk.
The 27-year-old surely deserves some sort of a chance at the London Stadium in the future. And, in fact, you could argue that Pellegrini’s treatment of him to date has been rather harsh.
Ultimately what the Chilean is looking for from any attacking recruit is someone to play second fiddle to club record signing Sebastien Haller. A striker who can come off the bench with 20 minutes to go with the Hammers needing a goal to join the Frenchman in attack, and who can put lower league teams to the sword in cup competition. Ajeti hasn’t been capable of that thus far.
Hugill, though, surely would be. When you compare his statistics to Haller’s so far this term, he actually comes across pretty well. However, the Irons ace is obviously playing at a higher level.
As per WhoScored.com, Hugill is actually beating Haller in average shots and dribbles per game. Meanwhile, he has been better in possession, averaging fewer unsuccessful touches and being dispossessed less often.
Again, he’s played more minutes and against lower level defenders, but his numbers are encouraging as a potential back up option behind the 25-year-old.
Despite that, Football Insider reported recently that the east London outfit are looking to cash in on Hugill in January. Perhaps, though, that could be a mistake.
