OPINION
There’s no doubt that the goalkeeping situation at West Ham United has been an absolute mess this season and, for all Lukasz Fabianski’s brilliance, it wouldn’t be entirely fixed by his return from injury.
The problem the Hammers have is that the Poland international is 34 years of age now. Yes, goalkeepers can continue at the top level for longer than outfield players, but he’s hardly a long-term solution, even if he’s an exceptional short-term one.
So it makes sense that, given Fabianski’s age and how poor Roberto has been this campaign, the east London outfit would be looking for reinforcements between the sticks.
Former England international Paul Robinson believes that Stoke City shot-stopper Jack Butland is the man for Manuel Pellegrini’s team moving forward.
“Jack Butland, he’s a perfect fit because he would look at it and think: ‘I could possibly take the number one jersey off Fabianski as well’,” he told Football Insider.
Their report claims that the Irons have set their sights on the 6ft 4in England international [Source: Transfermarkt], but that Stoke’s £25million valuation is a problem.
The Sky Sports pundit is 100% right to gush over Butland, because he could be a great long-term solution for West Ham. Yes, his price tag might be a problem, but if a new manager comes in and demands the club sign him in January, the owners will have a hard time saying no.
Butland is still just 26-year-old, but has absolute bucketloads of experience. Plus, he’ll be wanting a move back to the Premier League to enhance his chances of getting to the Euros next summer.
He could push Fabianski for a starting spot now, while representing the Pole’s successor if he can’t dislodge him immediately. It seems like a win-win for everyone, and Robinson has got his take spot on here.
