West Ham United now ‘strong’ favourites to win Europa League after ‘huge’ transfer news
We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium…
Frank McAvennie believes West Ham United are now “strong” favourites to win the Europa League this season after the addition of Kalvin Phillips on loan.
The Hammers confirmed the signing (26 January) of the Manchester City midfielder on a temporary loan deal until the end of the season.
The 28-year-old leaves the Etihad on a temporary basis due to his limited minutes under Pep Guardiola this season and there is believed to be no option for West Ham to sign him permanently in the summer.
The Irons will pay a loan fee and cover Phillips’ salary for the duration of his time at the London Stadium.
Speaking to West Ham Zone, McAvennie said: “Huge signing and a player who can transform the whole team.
“I’ve been calling for West Ham to be more attacking recently and this is the signing that can help them do that.
“Phillips will just sit in front of the back four and maybe let everyone in front of him go and play with freedom. That’s what the fans want and he will help them achieve that.
“I really like him, he can break up play, and set the tone in possession but he also gives Moyes a lot of freedom to do what he wishes in attack.
“I’m hoping Moyes just says to him, ‘You just sit in front of the defence, and the rest of you, go and play'”.
“If that happens, then the fans will see a much better West Ham team and I make us strong favourites for the Europa League, I really do. We can go far in the Premier League too.
“Listen, the players that we’ve got right now, we should be playing better football and hopefully Phillips will help give us that luxury as Hammers fans.”
In other West Ham news, the stance of another Premier League player who has been linked with the club has been revealed.
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