Julen Lopetegui talks with Danny Ings mooted as West Ham United exit update emerges
Frank McAvennie believes Julen Lopetegui will have guaranteed Danny Ings game time at West Ham, with the player snubbing a move to Southampton.
According to Sean Whetstone [7 July], Ings is keen to fight for his place at the London Stadium despite offers from former club Southampton for a move this summer.
The 31-year-old has made 52 appearances for the Hammers since arriving from Aston Villa in January 2023, though he only made three Premier League starts last term and had been linked with a move away.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, McAvennie said: “Danny Ings’ age is the only reason for the low price. Years ago, you couldn’t get an Ings but all of a sudden, centre-forwards are being played out.
“He’s a goalscorer – that’s that. He’s a bit like Tony Cottee – he only wants to score goals, which is great if you have a team that is going to play that way. I don’t know how this new manager is going to play but he’s obviously spoken to Ings and told him he can play.
“There’s no way he’s not going to Southampton if the manager hasn’t guaranteed game time. I’m pleased because he can score goals. Antonio can play but, unfortunately, he doesn’t stay fit. Lopetegui might want to play Ings instead, with [Jarrod] Bowen in behind.
Danny Ings set for West Ham United stay under Julen Lopetegui
Having been a superb goalscorer during his time at St Mary’s Stadium, many fans are surprised to see Ings’ decision not to leave the London Stadium this summer.
The striker has only scored four goals since January 2023, having managed just one Premier League goal last season in a 2-2 draw with Burnley.
It was clear that Ings had little chance of getting onto the pitch under David Moyes’ watch, though things could be very different for the forward under new manager Lopetegui.
In other West Ham news, Julen Lopetegui has already hinted at a Hammers exit in a new managerial admission.
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